Danny Jordaan, the president of the South African Football Association (SAFA), is set to appear in the Commercial Crimes Court in Palm Ridge, Ekurhuleni, today, where he will seek to have the charges against him dropped. Jordaan, along with SAFA Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo (55) and businessman Trevor Neethling (46), is facing fraud and theft charges totaling approximately R1.3 million. This marks his third court appearance in the ongoing case.
Jordaan is expected to apply for the dismissal of charges under Section 342A of the Criminal Procedure Act, which allows a court to investigate delays in criminal proceedings that could prejudice either the prosecution or the accused. His legal team will argue that the case has been delayed unfairly and that further postponements could harm his reputation, regardless of the trial’s outcome.
In the most recent court session, Jordaan and his co-accused were present for the disclosure of the docket by the State. Jordaan’s defence counsel, Arendse, noted that a prolonged legal battle between SAFA and the State could complicate the case further, possibly leading to significant reputational damage for his clients, even if they are ultimately cleared of the charges.
The case continues to attract attention, with Jordaan and his co-accused eager to see the matter resolved. The outcome of this application could significantly impact both the legal proceedings and the future of Jordaan’s leadership at SAFA.