Kaws rebuilds after turmoil

KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Animal Welfare Society (Kaws) has formally announced the election of its 2026 committee, signalling what many hope will be the beginning of a more stable and collaborative chapter for the organisation.

The new committee was elected at the annual general meeting held on 26 November, and convened on 30 November to confirm office bearers and finalise portfolio allocations.

New leadership confirmed

The newly elected office bearers are:

• Chairperson: Dr Ernst Arndt

• Vice-chair: Debbie Stanley

• Treasurer: Juanita van Rooyen

• Secretary: Anika Venter

Portfolio responsibilities have been allocated as follows:

• Welfare and clinic: Dr Ernst Arndt

• Municipal liaison, PR and fundraising: Debbie Stanley

• Outreach and website administration: Eugene van der Westhuizen

• Volunteer co-ordination and adoptions: Maxine Stappers

• Maintenance, staff liaison, SOPs and legal: Dr Olaf Fischer

• Fundraising, marketing and shop liaison: Paula Beck

• Digital marketing and adoptions: Sofia Martin

Chairperson Dr Ernst Arndt said the committee is "still finding its feet" but united in its commitment to rebuilding trust, strengthening transparency, and restoring stability after a difficult year.

A fresh start after months of internal conflict
As reported previously in the Knysna-Plett Herald, the announcement comes after a protracted period of internal turmoil, which included resignations, disputes over constitutional processes, allegations of misconduct and double standards, volunteer backlash, and tensions surrounding the calling of special general meetings.

Concerns around governance, communication and member treatment dominated much of the public discussion, drawing scrutiny from supporters and local media.

The Garden Route SPCA also monitored the organisation during this period, with initial welfare concerns later followed by notable improvements in late October.

While the disputes created deep divisions within the organisation, the AGM marked an opportunity for Kaws members to reset and elect a new committee with a mandate to move forward. The new leadership has emphasised unity, transparency, and open dialogue as guiding principles for the year ahead.

Commitment to rebuilding and stability
In its official statement, the committee expressed gratitude to all members who participated in the AGM, as well as volunteers, donors, outreach groups and community partners, who continued supporting the society despite the turbulence.

They also extended thanks to outgoing committee members for their efforts in resolving compliance issues and stabilising internal processes in preparation for the incoming board.

“Kaws remains committed to fostering transparency, strengthening relationships with staff, volunteers, private outreach organisations, and local communities, and promoting open and constructive dialogue,” the statement read.

Newly elected board members and long-standing employees and volunteers of Kaws. Photo: Rozano Alie