Safa president Jordaan arrested in fraud case

Danny Jordaan, the president of the South African Football Association (Safa), has been arrested in connection with allegations of fraud and theft involving the misuse of the organization’s funds. Jordaan, 73, was released on bail following his arrest on Wednesday, which was part of an investigation led by South Africa’s Hawks, a specialized crime investigation unit.

The case dates back to a period between 2014 and 2018, during which Jordaan is accused of diverting approximately 1.3 million rand (about $72,000 or £57,000) from Safa for personal gain. The charges stem from claims that he authorized the use of Safa’s funds to hire a private security company for his personal protection and to engage a public relations firm, both without proper authorization from the Safa board.

Jordaan, a prominent figure in South African football who played a key role in securing the 2010 FIFA World Cup for the country, was arrested and brought before the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court in Johannesburg. Alongside him, Safa’s chief financial officer, Gronie Hluyo, and businessman Trevor Neethling also appeared in court, facing similar charges. Both men were granted bail as well.

During the court proceedings, the three accused were warned not to contact potential state witnesses who may testify against them in the case. The case was adjourned, with the next hearing scheduled for December 5.

Jordaan had reportedly attempted to block his arrest earlier this week, filing a court application and submitting an affidavit that denied any wrongdoing. In addition, in March of this year, the Hawks raided the Safa offices in Johannesburg, seizing various electronic devices, including a laptop, USB drives, external hard drives, and documents that could provide further evidence in the ongoing investigation.

This legal issue adds to the mounting scrutiny surrounding Jordaan’s leadership at Safa. While he has denied all allegations of mismanagement and corruption, the charges come amid years of criticism regarding the state of South African football under his presidency. Critics have particularly highlighted the failure of the national men’s football team, Bafana Bafana, to qualify for a World Cup since South Africa’s hosting of the tournament in 2010. In addition, there have been concerns about the decline of grassroots football infrastructure in the country, with many arguing that Jordaan’s leadership has not addressed these pressing issues.

Despite the ongoing legal troubles, Jordaan remains a dominant figure in South African football. He has been Safa president since 2013 and has reportedly expressed his intention to seek a fourth term. His influence within the organization and in South African football circles is significant, and many are waiting to see how the legal challenges will affect his future in the sport.

As the investigation continues, many are watching closely, with the football community divided over Jordaan’s legacy. While some support his tenure, particularly his role in bringing the World Cup to South Africa, others believe that his leadership has been marked by mismanagement and a failure to develop the sport at the grassroots level.

The outcome of this case could have significant implications not only for Jordaan but for the future of Safa and the state of South African football. For now, Jordaan’s future remains uncertain as he faces legal battles that could shape his legacy in the sport.