South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan is embroiled in a serious investigation by the Hawks—the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation—facing allegations of using SAFA resources for personal benefit between 2014 and 2018. The case revolves around misuse of funds, irregular contracts, and personal security arrangements funded by SAFA without proper authorization. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects surrounding the case and Jordaan’s response.
1. Alleged Misuse of SAFA Resources
The Hawks allege that Jordaan used SAFA funds to finance personal expenses, including hiring a private security company, Badger Security, for his protection. Additionally, he reportedly secured the services of Grit Communications, a public relations firm, to protect his public image, particularly during high-profile controversies, without SAFA board approval. Both hires reportedly bypassed SAFA’s authorization processes, raising concerns of irregularities within the organization.
2. Unauthorised Spending on PR Firm Amid Scandals
Between 2014 and 2018, Jordaan faced damaging allegations, including those related to rape, that affected both his and SAFA’s reputations. The Hawks claim that Jordaan breached SAFA regulations by arranging a contract with Grit Communications, who were paid R1.3 million. The firm’s mandate was to influence public opinion by securing favorable media coverage for Jordaan and SAFA, despite a lack of board approval for such spending. This PR campaign allegedly cost SAFA significant resources under questionable circumstances.
3. Search and Seizure of SAFA Offices
The Hawks launched a raid on SAFA’s headquarters on March 8 to gather evidence about the disputed contracts with Grit Communications and Badger Security. During the raid, the Hawks seized electronic equipment and documents to review the legitimacy of these contracts. Concerns over these arrangements had been flagged within SAFA, and former SAFA CEO Dennis Mumble reportedly resisted signing the Grit Communications service agreement, citing the contract’s high cost and lack of a competitive tender process.
4. Financial Oversight Issues and Lack of Tendering
Jordaan’s contract with Grit Communications exceeded R250,000, which SAFA regulations stipulate should require a formal tendering process. Dennis Mumble’s refusal to sign off on the contract underscored these oversight issues. Nonetheless, Grit Communications was contracted and instructed to promote SAFA’s reputation and provide image management for Jordaan. The agreement, reportedly conducted without following SAFA’s financial protocols, is at the heart of the alleged financial mismanagement.
5. Jordaan’s Legal Defense Against Arrest
In response to these allegations, Jordaan filed an affidavit to prevent his arrest, maintaining that Grit Communications was legitimately hired to uphold SAFA’s reputation. He insists that all payments were reflected in SAFA’s financial statements and denies any criminal conduct by SAFA executives. Jordaan has petitioned the court to dismiss the arrest warrants, declare the March search and seizure invalid, and order the Hawks to return or destroy the documents confiscated during the raid. He argues that the investigation overstepped its legal boundaries by accessing SAFA’s entire electronic records, including the Chief Financial Officer’s laptop.
Court Case Proceedings: What Lies Ahead for Danny Jordaan
Jordaan, along with two SAFA executives, has been charged and is expected to appear in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The case highlights potential issues in SAFA’s governance and financial oversight, particularly concerning unauthorized expenditures. As the investigation unfolds, it will shed light on the extent of any irregularities within SAFA and provide clarity on the alleged misuse of funds by Jordaan.
Jordaan’s legal team is actively working to challenge the validity of the search and seizure operation, arguing that the warrant was flawed and led to an overreach by investigators. The court will also consider Jordaan’s request to prevent his arrest and compel the Hawks to return or destroy the seized documents. This legal battle will play a crucial role in determining whether Jordaan’s actions breached SAFA’s statutes or if, as he claims, they were justified efforts to protect the organization’s reputation. The case will likely set a precedent for financial accountability and governance practices within SAFA, bringing to light the broader implications of compliance within sporting organizations in South Africa.
The Hawks’ investigation underscores the importance of transparency and compliance in organizations like SAFA, where public funds and reputations are at stake. The case continues to draw public interest as the authorities work to ascertain accountability for any violations that may have occurred.
Related article: Gayton McKenzie Issues Clear Ultimatum to SAFA: World Cup and AFCON Qualification
