SAFA National Executive Committee's Jack Maluleka denies Danny Jordaan is facing disciplinary measures for fraud and theft charges - 'This is a separate matter for the court to decide.'

On 13 November, SAFA President Danny Jordaan, Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo, and Grit Communications Director Trevor Neethling were arrested for fraud and theft charges.

Most recently, on 10 December, the accused appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrate Court. Present during the proceedings was SAFA National Executive Committee (NEC) member Jack Maluleka, who addressed the media regarding Jordaan’s position and the NEC’s stance on the matter.

Maluleka reaffirmed the committee's support for the 73-year-old, indicating no current motion within the NEC to challenge his presidency or subject the accused to disciplinary procedures.

"Why the disciplinary hearing? That's why I said, I don't recall the NEC discussing any kind of misconduct. Only in the court, and that's why we're here to listen to the proceedings of the court," said Maluleka as reported by SabcSport.

"Unfortunately [any internal investigation] will depend on the legal and constitutional committee to check that one and report, but we never had such a meeting to discuss these things where we charge a person.

"If there are allegations levelled against a person, and we then institute a DC – what for? Because the DC will be instituted by the internal processes of the organisation, it can't be – this is a separate matter for the court to decide."

"Look, I won't labour much on this issue because tomorrow it might be me. Allegations are allegations, and in football somebody can just make an allegation that I assaulted him, so must I be worried," he quizzed.

"Even in the field of play, somebody will make an allegation that somebody tripped him, and make a loud noise so that the referee can have his attention, and give that particular person a red card, where as it's not even a foul.

"So, even in politics, and even in football, it's like that, we know. That's why I said, I might not labour much on this thing, but if there is an allegation, the allegation needs to be proven."

This case has generated significant controversy within South Africa’s football community. Critics argue that Jordaan's legal battles overshadow the performance and progress of the national team.

Calls for his resignation have gained momentum among stakeholders who believe his position is untenable and the ongoing legal issues risk undermining public trust in SAFA’s leadership.

The case also highlights broader concerns about governance and accountability in South African football.

On Tuesday the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court dismissed Danny Jordaan’s application to have his fraud and theft charges struck off the roll.

As a result, he is scheduled to appear in court again on 7 February 2025. In the meantime, he continues to face scrutiny from the football community and the public.

The upcoming trial will be a crucial moment in determining the future of his presidency but until then the Safa leadership is under pressure to maintain stability.