Johannesburg - Floyd Mbele has been officially removed as Platinum Stars' chairman and will now concentrate on his role as the chief executive at Royal Bafokeng Sports Holding (RBSH).
Lucas Ndala, acting chief executive at Royal Bafokeng Holding (RBH), will hold the position until the end of the season.
The developments were confirmed by Stars' general manager Jason Raine on Thursday.
“There were questions raised by some shareholders regarding corporate governance issues.
“It was felt probably better to get an independent director until some issues are sorted out,” he said.
It emerged last week that some members were not happy with Mbele doubling as Stars' chairman and as a member of RBSH.
RBSH own 100 percent of Stars, but the club's chairman is independent of the parent company.
Some inside sources said Mbele and RBSH chairman Cliff Ramoroa were not on the best of terms. Ramoroa was not available to comment.
Ndala referred questions to Raine, until a formal announcement was made.
“Unfortunately I can't comment on the matter. You will get all communication from Jason,” he said.
According to Raine, the move would “make no real changes” in the club's set up, and the “confusion” would be solved at the end of the Premiership season.
“The status quo remains the same. This, I'm sure, will be sorted in the next board meeting in either June or July,” Raine said.
“A concern was raised by one board member, where there were different views at the club board.”
Meanwhile, Raine said the inquiry into coach Owen da Gama, who is being investigated for allegedly taking a bribe from players to be fielded, should be finalised before this weekend.
The club met with Da Gama on Wednesday, and it findings were conveyed to him. They have not yet been made public.
The Rustenburg-based side wants the matter concluded as soon as possible, but it has been dragging on despite independent lawyer Mandla Tshabalala's report back to the club three weeks ago.
“We met with Owen on Wednesday,” said Raine. “We are hoping to conclude and finalise the discussions as soon as possible.
“I was hoping to have done that today (Thursday) with the body, but the directors were in a different meeting.”
Da Gama also referred the matter to the club.
“You will have to speak to the club on that because I am not at liberty to speak on the findings,” he said. - Sapa