By Mpho Moloi
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Free State have called for immediate clarification from Tumelo Phahlo, Head of the Department of Social Development, regarding allegations of misappropriation of R2.3 million in public funds.
The funds, intended for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), were reportedly diverted to the Khula Foundation, an organisation allegedly linked to Phahlo’s family members.
In a statement issued on October 28, 2024, EFF Free State Provincial Chairperson, Coach, expressed deep concern over the allegations, stating, “The EFF demands full transparency and accountability from Mr. Phahlo. The misuse of public funds intended for community development is a grave injustice to the people of the Free State.”
The Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, have initiated a probe into the matter. Hawks spokesperson Captain Christopher Singo confirmed the investigation, noting that specific details cannot yet be disclosed. “The investigation will only reveal the individuals involved once the matter has been concluded and presented in court,” said Singo.
Central News previously reached out to the Department of Social Development for comment but received no response. The department has since stated its commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation to uphold accountability and transparency.
The allegations have sparked public outrage and raised questions about corruption within government departments. The EFF has called for Phahlo to clarify the foundation’s role and its alleged access to departmental funds. Phahlo, through his legal team, has reportedly refused direct communication with the media, instead issuing a warning that they may seek legal recourse if defamatory claims are made without evidence.
SAFA President Danny Jordaan, CFO Gronie Hluyo, and Businessman Trevor Neethling Granted R20,000 Bail Amid Fraud Case
By Thabo Mosia
On Wednesday, 13 November 2024, the Specialized Commercial Crimes Court in Palm Ridge granted bail of R20,000 each to South African Football Association (SAFA) President Danny Jordaan, Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo, and businessman Trevor Neethling. The trio faces charges of fraud and theft amounting to R1.3 million, allegedly misappropriated between 2014 and 2018.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Magistrate Phillip Venter presided over the bail hearing, during which the state proposed bail at R20,000 for each accused. The court imposed conditions requiring the accused to surrender their passports and refrain from contacting any witnesses involved in the case. The matter has been postponed to 5 December 2024 for disclosure.
Jordaan’s legal representative requested the court to relax the passport surrender condition, citing his extensive travel obligations related to his role at SAFA, including the upcoming Bafana Bafana match against Uganda. The state opposed this request, arguing that the condition is standard in such cases to prevent flight risk.
Accusations and Defence Responses
The charges stem from allegations that Jordaan, during his tenure as SAFA President, utilised the organisation’s resources for personal gain without board authorisation. This includes hiring a private security company for personal protection and engaging a public relations firm. Hluyo and Neethling are implicated in facilitating these transactions.
In his bail affidavit, Hluyo referenced a High Court application seeking to stay their arrest, asserting that the state lacks sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims against him. Neethling, director of Grit Communication, contended that his company was contracted for 12 months at R80,000 per month (excluding tax) to enhance SAFA’s image. He maintained that he had no reason to doubt Jordaan’s authority to sign the contract and described himself as “collateral damage” in SAFA’s internal conflicts.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, executed arrest warrants for Jordaan, Hluyo, and Neethling earlier that day. Jordaan, aged 74, was arrested at his home after allegedly failing to surrender himself as advised by the investigating officer on 7 November. He had filed an interdict application in the High Court, set to be heard on 14 November, seeking to prevent his arrest.
All three accused confirmed in court that they have no prior convictions or pending cases against them. Jordaan denied all charges, describing his arrest as an abuse of process and expressing concern over potential irreparable harm should the High Court rule in his favour.
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