"I'm disappointed in myself" - KZNA suspends Mkasi for street fight

Following what has been described as the most shocking and disgraceful conduct by a sitting KwaZulu-Natal Athletics board member, the KZNA board has suspended president Steve Mkasi pending the outcome of a disciplinary process. This comes after Mkasi was caught on a video engaged in a street fight with an athlete who is attached to the AmaRavens Athletics Club, the organizing club of the Best of the Best Marathon. 

"KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA) wishes to inform all affiliated clubs that the Executive Board convened a Special Board Meeting on 13 July 2026 to consider an unfortunate incident involving the President of KZNA and an affiliated athlete. The matter received significant public attention and was extensively deliberated upon by the Board in accordance with the provisions of the KZNA Constitution and Code of Conduct. The Executive Board views any conduct that has the potential to bring the sport of athletics or the organisation into disrepute with the utmost seriousness," read the statement released by KZNA on Monday 13 July.

Mkasi's conduct has sparked widespread outrage. Photo Credit: Supplied.

The incident is believed to have taken place on the afternoon of Saturday (11 July) after the both parties exchanged words in a lengthy and heated phone. It is understood that Mkasi took exception to the athlete’s posts about him on social media and then arranged to confront him in Morningside, Durban. A physical altercation ensued when the two met leaving the KZNA board with no choice but to temporarily suspend Mkasi while the formal disciplinary process, which includes an independent investigation, proceeds. 

"The Executive Board resolved as follows: That a formal disciplinary enquiry be instituted to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether there have been any breaches of the KZNA Constitution, Code of Conduct, or related governance provisions. President Steve Mkasi step aside from his duties as President of KwaZuluNatal Athletics pending the outcome of the disciplinary process. The disciplinary enquiry be conducted by independent external parties to ensure transparency, impartiality, and procedural fairness."

Buthelezi (right) will serve as acting KZNA President while Mkasi remains suspended. Photo Credit: Supplied.

During Mkasi’s suspension, his deputy Khulezweni 'Khura' Buthelezi will step into the acting role for the time being. Buthelezi brings a wealth of experience having served in the provincial structures for years in different roles. Meanwhile Mkasi has issued an apology to the athletics community for his regrettable behaviour.

"I am disappointed in myself for my actions. What occurred was a serious lapse in judgment on my part. I found myself in a confrontation that escalated into a physical tussle. I was wrong to engage in that manner. I am making no excuses for my behaviour.  I accept that my position requires a higher standard of conduct. I am committed  to ensuring this never happens again. I am sorry to the athletics  community, to KZN Athletics , and to everyone who has been affected by my actions.”