Modipa backs SAFA’s regional tradition after Jordaan re-election

Tankiso Modipa has defended South African Football Association’s (SAFA) long-standing practice of choosing its president from within the organisation’s regional structures, although he stopped short of confirming that the next successor to Danny Jordaan would follow that route.

The newly re-elected SAFA National Executive Committee (NEC) member was speaking at a press conference this past weekend, following the association’s elective congress. Jordaan retained the presidency after defeating Sandile Zungu by 157 votes to 82.

Zungu’s candidacy prompted a debate over whether his nomination challenged the established tradition of SAFA leadership. Modipa, who is also Western Cape Football Association (WAFA) chairperson, said the organisation had been taught to preserve that system.

“We were taught by our elders in SAFA that we can never have someone coming in from the outside and not from the regions, to lead SAFA. This is because of various reasons,” Modipa said.

“It is incorrect to have someone outside of SAFA’s structures come in to lead SAFA. We have our own integrity and dignity to protect.”

In several countries, the changing nature of modern football has allowed leaders of professional clubs to stand for election to senior positions within their national football associations.

Former SAFA President and Honorary President Molefi Oliphant was reported in the media to remain supportive of the established regional approach.

When asked whether Zungu could put himself forward for the presidency again in future, Modipa appeared to reject that possibility, rather than endorsing a change to the tradition.

Modipa also explained how Jordaan’s supporters secured greater backing during the election. He led the campaign team of the Football Transformation Forum (FTF), which supported Jordaan’s bid.

He said the campaign had not relied on promises or discussions about financial rewards, arguing that SAFA members understood their responsibility in choosing the organisation’s leadership.

“One thing that took us over the line is the honesty of our members. We didn’t promise them anything because they know what SAFA is and how it works. We didn’t talk about compensation because it is the obligation of members to ensure they elect the leadership structure of SAFA that will serve them at different levels,” he said.

Modipa added that SAFA’s purpose was often misunderstood outside the organisation.

“Most of the people in the country don’t understand SAFA. SAFA is a developmental structure, it isn’t a business.”

The new SAFA NEC consists of 40 members, including four representatives from the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Modipa said its composition provided a suitable balance between younger members and those with greater experience.