Jooste stripped of his NHA membership

EMBATTLED former Steinhoff International chief executive Markus Jooste has resigned as a member of the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) after failing to provide information as requested by the horse racing authority last week. NHA chief executive Lyndon Barends said: “The NHA confirms, following its request to Mayfair Speculators, that Markus Jooste was also requested to provide information pertaining to his current affairs and how they may impact on the various horse racing and related activities that he is involved in.” Jooste has subsequently relinquished his racing colours and resigned from the NHA with immediate effect. “The NHA has accepted Mr Jooste’s resignation as a member and cancelled his colours and privileges,” Barends said. Mayfair Speculators is the vehicle that represents the racing interests of Jooste. The NHA said it would give Jooste time to respond to the allegations that he was manipulating and controlling the horse industry in South Africa for his personal gain. – Sandile Mchunu