Football/ SAFA: President Danny Jordaan released on bail amid fraud investigation

Danny Jordaan, president of the South African Football Association (Safa), has been granted bail following his arrest on allegations of misappropriating the organisation’s funds.

The investigation, led by the Hawks, focuses on claims of fraud and theft between 2014 and 2018, involving a sum of 1.3 million rand ($72,000, £57,000). Jordaan, who has been at the helm of Safa since 2013, is accused of hiring a private security firm for his personal use and engaging a public relations company without proper approval from the Safa board.

Jordaan, who played a pivotal role in securing the 2010 FIFA World Cup for South Africa, appeared in court alongside Safa’s chief financial officer, Gronie Hluyo, and businessman Trevor Neethling.

All three individuals were released on bail but have been cautioned against contacting potential witnesses in the case. The court has set the next hearing for 5 December.

The investigation is part of a broader scrutiny surrounding Jordaan’s leadership, which has been marred by accusations of corruption and financial mismanagement.

Despite the controversy, Jordaan, 73, has maintained his innocence and reportedly plans to seek a fourth term as Safa president.

Critics, however, continue to demand his resignation, citing the national team’s failure to qualify for a World Cup since 2010 and ongoing issues with South Africa’s grassroots football development.

Source: bbc.com