Talk of Cold War in Safa

CRACKS have started to show in the new leadership of the South African Football Association, which is now alleged to be divided into camps.

This comes in the wake of media reports that Leslie Sedibe is on the verge of resigning as chief executive before completing his 12-month contract in December.

Sunday Times yesterday reported that Sedibe was frustrated by the fact that Safa strategic manager Dennis Mumble was running his own administration, parallel to Sedibe's. Sedibe could not be reached for comment but Safa deputy president Mandla Mazibuko said the federation was fully behind their head of administration.

"The CEO has my full support, there is no way we can bring him here at Safa and frustrate him. He always comes to me when he needs help, we get along very well," said Mazibuko yesterday. He said he was "not aware of any division" in Safa.

Sedibe also received unwavering support from the South African Schools Football Association, an influential associate member of Safa.

"Leslie must not give up, he has our full support. We need to work closely with him for the continued growth of our sport," said Sasfa general secretary Steve Pila yesterday.

"Safa has three major members, the regions, associate members and special member, we are all equal in terms of the constitution. People must also remember Shoes was elected to serve Safa as vice-president by the football family, he did not go in there on the ticket of Sasfa."

Safa president Kirsten Nematandani told Sunday Times: "Dennis offers strategic support to the office of the president and he reports to Leslie, who is the head of all aspects of administration."

Safa's administration has improved tremendously under the hard-working Sedibe.

Said a source close to the situation: "There are certain people who are trying to sabotage Leslie, who is doing a great job for Safa. There is a Cold War among certain Safa executive members, especially the top brass. They differ on how to handle certain issues, especially those affecting the regions. This is unfortunate for football development in the country. These guys must resolve their differences. "