South African Rugby managing director Johan Prinsloo has defied an order by SA Rugby Union vice-president Mike Stofile to go on leave following accusations of sexual harassment against him.
”Mike does not have the power to do that,” Prinsloo said on Thursday. ”I think he may have been advised incorrectly.”
”There are procedures to be followed and it hasn’t been done correctly.”
A disciplinary committee meeting — the first step that needs to be taken — has, according to Prinsloo, yet to be finalised.
”I believe it will take place some time next week and until then I intend to continue doing my job. I have contacted my legal people and they have accordingly advised me,” Prinsloo said.
”There needs to be a proper investigation first. I agree the allegation is serious, but it has not been handled well.
”The disciplinary process demands confidence from all parties, but yet this was somehow leaked. We need to find out who is lying. This is very irresponsible.”
Prinsloo had been ordered to go on leave following an allegation of sexual harassment against him, the Daily Dispatch newspaper reported on Thursday.
Stofile issued the order to Prinsloo on Wednesday night.
”I have spoken to Mike three times today, we are on good terms, and he has agreed that due process has not been followed,” Prinsloo said.
Stofile was asked to sign a letter to Prinsloo after SA Rugby’s human resources department told him independent lawyers were investigating the allegation against Prinsloo, laid by a man. – Sapa