South African Football President Danny Jordaan Arrested Over Fraud Claims
Danny Jordaan, president of the South African Football Association (Safa), has been released on bail after being arrested over allegations of using Safa funds for personal gain. BBC reports that investigators, known as the Hawks, are probing fraud and theft at Safa between 2014 and 2018, involving 1.3 million rand ($72,000, £57,000).
Jordaan, 73, is accused of hiring a private security firm for his protection and a public relations company without approval from the Safa board. BBC highlights that he is a prominent figure in South African football, credited with helping bring the 2010 FIFA World Cup to the country, and has served as Safa president since 2013.
He appeared in court in Johannesburg alongside Safa’s financial officer, Gronie Hluyo, and businessman Trevor Neethling. All three were granted bail and warned not to contact potential witnesses. The case will continue on December 5.
BBC reveals that Jordaan had filed a legal document earlier, denying any wrongdoing and attempting to prevent his arrest. In March, the Hawks raided Safa’s offices, seizing laptops, USBs, and documents as part of their investigation.
Criticism of Jordaan has been growing due to allegations of corruption and mismanagement in South African football. Critics also point to the decline in grassroots football and the national men’s team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup since 2010. Despite this, BBC notes that Jordaan is reportedly seeking a fourth term as Safa president, maintaining his innocence throughout.
These allegations have put a spotlight on South African football’s struggles, with calls for better accountability and leadership.
As BBC emphasizes, this case could be a turning point for the sport’s administration in the country.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c937n05e4yno