AmaZulu King Backs Sandile Zungu in SAFA Election, Commands KZN Regions to Vote for Him
- KwaZulu-Natal’s 11 SAFA regions have become a major focus ahead of the presidential contest
- Sandile Zungu is challenging Danny Jordaan for the top job in South African football
- A royal intervention has added another layer to an already closely watched election
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Source: Getty Images
AmaZulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has thrown his support behind Sandile Zungu’s bid to become South African Football Association (SAFA) president, calling for KwaZulu-Natal’s regions to unite behind the AmaZulu FC owner.
The Mail & Guardian reported on 2 September 2026 that the King had urged all 11 KZN regions to support Zungu ahead of the SAFA elective congress on 12 September.
AmaZulu kingdom royal chancellor Inkosi Malusi Zondi said:
“His Majesty King Misuzulu has sent us to ensure that Mr Sandile Zungu gets the maximum support in his home province.”
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KwaZulu-Natal becomes key battleground
Zungu is challenging incumbent president Danny Jordaan, who has led SAFA since 2013.
However, Kwenza Khwela, a Jordaan supporter and provincial SAFA chairperson, said seven of KZN’s 11 regions back the incumbent.
“Seven are behind the current president’s re-election. As the Football Transformation Forum, we’re leading in numbers,” Khwela said.
Zondi, meanwhile, called for unity before the congress.
“We must go to the congress united and vote as a solid block,” he said.
SAFA election battle intensifies
SAFA has 52 regions nationwide, making KZN’s 11 regions a significant voting bloc. Zungu’s Save Our SAFA campaign has also attracted support from former Bafana Bafana stars Lucas Radebe and Mark Fish.
The election battle comes amid claims of disputed regional congresses, with some regions considering legal action over delegate exclusions.
The outcome will be decided at the 12 September congress.
Source: UGC
FIFA urged to investigate SAFA election dispute
Briefly News also reported that the SAFA presidential race had already come under scrutiny ahead of the 12 September 2026 election, with concerns raised over alleged irregularities in the voting process.
SAFA vice-president Bennet Bailey confirmed that a letter had been sent to FIFA asking the global football governing body to examine the concerns. Bailey also backed Sandile Zungu, saying, “We don't only need a change of face but a change of direction and football philosophy.”
The development adds another layer to the increasingly contested battle between Zungu and incumbent Danny Jordaan.
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Source: Briefly News
