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SAFA responds to ‘malicious attacks’ against its president and CEO

SAFA president Danny Jordaan walking during the playoffs

The SA Football Association [SAFA] have responded to claims they described as ‘malicious attacks’ on the organisation’s president, Danny Jordaan, and CEO, Lydia Monyepao.

SAFA believes there is an operation that is intended to create the impression that there is chaos and destruction at the association.

In a long statement released on Monday, the football mother body in SA said they have noted a malicious and coordinated campaign to damage the reputations of the SA president, Danny Jordaan and the Chief Executive Officer, Lydia Monyepao.

Some SAFA officials have called for Jordaan to step down due to fraud charges levelled against him. But Jordaan has maintained his innocence.

SAFA DENY THAT THERE IS CHAOS AT THE ORGANISATION

According to a report by the Sunday World, four regions have joined some NEC members in their fight to force Jordaan to step down. Former SAFA deputy president Gladwyn White was also quoted by the same publication, accusing CEO Monyepao of ill-treating female staff members at the association.

“The campaign has escalated in recent weeks with some even going as far as posting a series of untruths on their own personal social media accounts, attempting to create the impression that the president and the CEO do not consult when making decisions,” said SAFA in a statement.

The SAFA, where is there chaos. This is a Logo on the front door of a vehicle during the ABC Motsepe League National playoffs
SAFA Logo: Picture @FARPost

REPORTS OF BULLYING BY SAFA CEO LYDIA MONYEPAO HAVE BEEN RUBBISHED

“Nothing could be further from the truth. The president consults on a regular basis with his vice presidents, and this is normal.

“Even SASCOC convenes a President’s Forum, and while it’s not a constitutional structure, it is used as a sound board. SAFA’s accountability is clearly set out in its statutes and is not determined on a whim.”

“Allegations that the CEO is bullying and treating female staff members in an unfair manner are cheap gossip, unsupported by evidence.”

SAFA added: “Despite the vicious attempts to destabilise SAFA, the association will continue in its mandate to develop and serve football in this country.”

They cited the recent performances by Bafana Bafana and the appointment of Victor Gomes as vice-president of the CAF Referees Committee, among others, as successes for the association.

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