‘The golden opportunity to have a leader to save SAFA’: Nonkonyana

As the South African Football Association (SAFA) elective congress approaches, the attention is on the delegates who will select the future leadership of South African football. Former SAFA Vice President, Chief Mwelo Nonkonyana, believes this is a prime opportunity for SAFA to evaluate its leadership, management strategies, and the future of the sport.

Nonkonyana urges the upcoming election not to be limited to the two presidential candidates, but to focus on the type of leadership the vote could bring to South African football. "Indeed, the 2026 SAFA elections present a golden opportunity for South African football to return to its noble goal of transforming SAFA into a source of national pride," he says.

Nonkonyana has expressed his support for Sandile Zungu to become the SAFA president, based on his capabilities. "I applaud the decision of Mr Sandile Zungu. He is presenting SAFA and the nation with the golden opportunity to have a leader to save SAFA. I have no hesitation to endorse his candidacy. Zungu has a proven track record in football," Nonkonyana declares.

Sandile Zungu, the SAFA presidential candidate, has acknowledged the support of all regions and football leaders behind his campaign, mentioning they have had to overcome significant resistance and threats to reach this stage of the campaign.