The South African Football Association (SAFA) has distanced itself from the ongoing corruption case involving its president, Dr Danny Jordaan, and other senior figures, insisting that the association was never responsible for lodging the criminal complaint that led to the matter reaching court.

The association has now indicated that it could take further action as it seeks to clarify its position regarding the case, which has been before the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court for approximately two years.

Jordaan, SAFA Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo, Grit Communications director Trevor Neethling and former SAFA chief executive officer Russel Paul have been named in the case. They have been called upon to answer allegations that include theft, fraud and corruption.

The allegations have drawn attention to the leadership of South African football's governing body, particularly because Jordaan remains one of the country's most prominent football administrators.

Following an ordinary meeting of its National Executive Committee (NEC) in Johannesburg over the weekend, SAFA issued a statement setting out its position on the matter.

According to the association, it never lodged a complaint with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, or any other law enforcement authority.

The clarification appears intended to distinguish the organisation's official position from the criminal proceedings involving individuals associated with its leadership.

SAFA's statement raises questions about the origins of the complaint and the circumstances that led to the investigation and subsequent court proceedings. However, the association's position does not, by itself, determine the merits of the allegations or the outcome of the case.

The legal matter involves serious accusations, but the allegations remain subject to the judicial process. The individuals named in the proceedings are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until their guilt is established in court.

SAFA's indication that it could take further action suggests that the association intends to respond more forcefully to the situation. However, the precise nature of any proposed action and the parties it may target were not specified in the information provided.

The development comes as the association seeks to make its position clear amid continued attention surrounding the case and its potential implications for the organisation's leadership.

For now, the court proceedings and SAFA's response remain separate issues. While the accused individuals must address the allegations through the legal process, the association has made it clear that it does not accept responsibility for initiating the complaint.

Further developments will depend on the progress of the court case and any additional steps SAFA decides to take following its NEC meeting.

Source; https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2112972321631645811