The future of embattled South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan hangs in the balance as the organisation’s National Executive Committee (NEC) prepares for a critical meeting this weekend amid growing internal dissent and financial turmoil.
The meeting comes in the wake of a second wave of unpaid staff salaries in three months, triggering a new wave of backlash against Safa’s leadership.
Disgruntled employees and senior insiders have pointed fingers at Jordaan’s long-standing presidency, accusing him of mismanagement, poor governance, and overseeing a steep decline in sponsorships and credibility.
“How do we even hold an NEC meeting when salaries haven’t been paid?” asked one official. “We’re in crisis mode, and it starts at the top.”
Leadership under fire
Jordaan, who has been at the helm of South African football since 2013, has faced increasing criticism over the years for his centralised leadership style and failure to secure sustainable financial pathways for Safa.
Despite once leading the successful bid to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Jordaan’s presidency has been marred by allegations of sidelining dissenting voices, poor corporate governance, and financial irregularities — including the mismanagement of the now-defunct FIFA Legacy Trust.
The trust, which held over R500 million in post-World Cup funds, was intended to support long-term development. Insiders now say the funds were misused and depleted, leaving the association cash-strapped.
Financial strain and missed wages
Safa employees were informed late on Monday that March salaries would not be paid on time, due to what the association described as a “delayed payment from one of our partners.” This is the second such delay since December.
With mounting debts and ongoing repayments on a R22 million loan from FIFA, the association has reportedly not received any further financial grants — worsening an already bleak picture.
Safa CEO Lydia Monyepao has also come under fire for failing to attend a key event this week and for staying silent on the salary issues. Her absence has further fuelled frustration within the organisation.
A crossroads for SAFA
This weekend’s NEC meeting is being seen as a potential turning point, with insiders suggesting that Jordaan’s position could be up for a vote. Several senior figures within Safa are reportedly pushing for change, arguing that the association needs fresh leadership to restore stability and credibility.
“There’s too much power in one man’s hands,” said one official. “The game has suffered for too long.”
Whether Jordaan survives the political storm or not, the outcome of this meeting could shape the direction of South African football for years to come.
