Gayton McKenzie steps in as SAFA-Monyepao clashes with MPs over Broos salary

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie intervened to disclose SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao's refusal to share Hugo Broos' monthly salary of R1.4 million to Parliament. This revelation occurred during a Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture meeting, which aimed to examine SAFA's management of Bafana Bafana's 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations and a visa issue that delayed the team's travel to Mexico.

The meeting was convened amid growing pressure on SAFA to be more accountable, particularly regarding the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and the use of public funds.

Economic Freedom Fighters MP Eugene Mthethwa continuously questioned Monyepao about Broos' earnings during his five-year tenure as coach of Bafana Bafana. However, Monyepao maintained that the salary information was confidential and part of Broos' contract. Committee chairperson Joe McGluwa emphasized that Monyepao was appearing before a parliamentary oversight body and should answer the questions presented to her.

Despite this, Monyepao remained firm and was subsequently removed from the virtual session. With Monyepao's absence, McKenzie then disclosed Broos' monthly salary, which translated to an annual salary of R16.8 million.

The situation is particularly critical for SAFA, as the association is in the process of appointing Pitso Mosimane as Broos' replacement. SAFA had initially offered Mosimane R5 million annually, but this was later raised to R10 million. Mosimane's appointment was approved by the National Election Committee (NEC) on August 8, but the formal announcement and discussions regarding salary, image rights, and the technical team are still ongoing.

Additionally, the ongoing controversy further complicates matters as McKenzie remains vigilant about SAFA's financial transparency, especially as Bafana Bafana's 2027 African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign commences next month.