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The South African Football Association (SAFA) wishes to communicate its official position on the long-running matter before the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court in the East of Johannesburg.
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan, Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo, Grit Communications Director, Trevor Neethling, and later former SAFA CEO Russel Paul were asked by the court to address serious allegations of theft, corruption and fraud in a matter that has now been running for two years.
The SAFA NEC held an Ordinary Meeting in Johannesburg this past weekend and wishes to place on the record that despite the on-going court action at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court, the Association has never lodged a complaint with the SAPS, the Hawks or any other authority.
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao wrote a letter to the court in December 2024 stating that SAFA was never a complainant. The letter further stated that the complainants are disgruntled former SAFA NEC Members and employees who have no legal right to represent SAFA in the proceedings. They have done so in their personal capacity outside of the ambit of SAFA.
It is worth adding that SAFA received unqualified audits for the period of this investigation by the National Prosecuting Authority and the subsequent audit period to date. The NEC further resolved that SAFA shall intervene in the criminal proceedings by making a detailed written statement refuting any wrongdoing on the part of the President, the CFO and former Acting CEO, Mr Russel Paul.
SAFA shall also institute civil action against any person or persons who have brought SAFA into disrepute or damaged the name of SAFA and its officials. In addition, SAFA shall pay all legal costs incurred by Dr Jordaan and Mr Hluyo, including costs incurred to date.
And finally, SAFA shall appoint an attorney and Senior Counsel to attend the proceedings on a watching brief going forward.
SOURCED FROM SAFA WEBSITE.