The South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) has suspended president Barry Hendricks with immediate effect following complaints alleging breaches of its safeguarding policy and Codes Handbook.
The decision places one of the country’s most senior sports administrators on the sidelines while the allegations go through the organisation’s internal judicial processes.
SASCOC said the suspension was implemented in accordance with its governance procedures and followed an internal review of complaints submitted anonymously to the Board.
Judge Waglay recommends referral
Following receipt of the complaints, SASCOC appointed retired Judge Basheer Waglay to assess the allegations.
According to the sports governing body, Judge Waglay identified prima facie evidence that warranted referring the complaints to the SASCOC Judicial Body for further consideration.
The case will now proceed through the organisation’s prescribed processes.
Importantly, SASCOC stressed that Hendricks’ suspension does not amount to a finding of wrongdoing.
The organisation also reiterated the principle that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty before an appropriate forum.
Lwandile Simelane assumes presidential duties
With Hendricks suspended, SASCOC First Vice-President Lwandile Simelane will assume the president’s responsibilities.
SASCOC said the temporary arrangement is provided for under its Constitution and is designed to ensure continuity while the matter is being dealt with.
The organisation added that it remains committed to transparency, accountability and good governance within South African sport.
SASCOC calls for due process
The Board has indicated that it will not provide further details while the internal proceedings are underway.
The organisation has also asked all parties involved to respect the relevant processes, noting that the matter is now sub judice.
“No further comments will be made by the organisation until the internal processes are completed,” the Board said.
The development comes at a significant time for SASCOC, which plays a central role in South Africa’s Olympic and Paralympic sporting structures.
For now, the focus will be on the judicial process and its eventual outcome. Until a formal finding is made, Hendricks remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.
