Calls for leadership renewal at the South African Football Association are gaining momentum, with the SA Masters and Legends Football Association publicly backing Lucas Radebe as a potential future SAFA president.
Speaking on behalf of the association, former AmaZulu and Durban Bush Bucks midfielder Mlungisi “Professor” Ngubane said the idea of Radebe stepping into the role was a positive initiative as South African football begins to consider succession planning beyond the current administration.
“From the initial approach I received regarding this matter, I believed it was a positive initiative, considering that Danny Jordaan is aging and might not be suited to oversee such a demanding role,” Ngubane said, according to KickOff.
While acknowledging uncertainty around how a leadership transition would be implemented, Ngubane confirmed that the Masters and Legends body would support Radebe should his name be formally put forward.
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“I am not certain how this transition will be managed, but I will cast my vote for Lucas Radebe. We require a young leader with administrative expertise,” he said.
Ngubane also raised concerns about SAFA’s current electoral structure, arguing that the provincial voting system has entrenched existing power dynamics and limited meaningful change at the top of the organisation.
“The practice of selecting or electing the SAFA president through provincial votes must be discontinued. If we persist with this method, Jordaan is unlikely to relinquish his position, as some provinces continue to vote for him due to personal or financial alliances,” he said.
According to Ngubane, the voting process itself has increasingly lost its effectiveness as a tool for accountability.
“A vote is increasingly ineffective,” he added. “Even in political contexts, elections are held, yet ruling parties frequently remain unchanged. Globally, a handful of parties tend to dominate governance.”
Despite calling for leadership renewal, Ngubane was careful to acknowledge Jordaan’s contribution to South African football during his tenure as SAFA president.
“Jordaan has performed well as SAFA president,” he said.
However, the SA Masters and Legends Football Association believes there is value in a dignified and well-timed transition, with Ngubane suggesting that Jordaan should consider stepping aside while his standing remains strong.
“It would be prudent for him to step down while he is still at the height of his capabilities,” Ngubane said. “It may be advisable for him to resign immediately after the upcoming World Cup.”
Ngubane also suggested that Jordaan’s experience could still benefit the game beyond domestic administration.
“Perhaps he could serve on the FIFA committee, as he is now operating at that level,” he concluded.
With respected former players now openly advocating for change and identifying Radebe as a viable future leader, pressure continues to build on SAFA to reflect on its governance structures and long-term direction.
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