Danny Jordaan and accused should step aside to avoid tarnishing the SAFA brand further

14 November 2024

As the GOOD Party, we have noted the arrest of South African Football Association president Danny Jordaan.

Yesterday Jordaan appeared alongside SAFA Chief Financial Gronie Hluyo and businessman Trevor Neethling (Grit Communications).

The trio are accused of using organisation funds for private use without approval.

Most notably is the allegation that Jordaan paid Grit Communications R1 million to improve his personal image after rape allegations.

Speaking to the media outside the court Bennet Bailey, one of SAFA's four vice presidents, said there is no step-aside rule at SAFA. "In political parties, especially in the ruling party, that is the policy of that party. At SAFA, there is no such thing. You are not guilty until you are proven guilty.”

Although it is not an official SAFA policy, there is no reason Jordaan and Hliluyo cannot do the right thing.

We call on law enforcement agencies to investigate the full extent of financial mismanagement at the association. For too long our national football heroes have struggled financial, while executives have been accused of living the high life.

As GOOD we stand firmly against fraud and corruption and believe no one is above the law, no matter their status.

Issued by Lulama Benge, GOOD: City of Cape Town Councillor, 14 November 2024