Grit Communications, a PR firm hired by the South African Football Association (Safa), tried to improve the public image of Safa and its president, Danny Jordaan.
The firm worked on reducing the negative impacts of allegations made against Jordaan, including rape, a political feud, and accusations related to a Fifa bribe for the 2010 World Cup hosting.
The firm’s work was part of a strategy to handle the challenges facing Jordaan’s reputation, especially due to his prior role as the mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay.
Over 16 months, Grit Communications used several methods to secure positive media coverage and improve local support for Safa.
Despite these efforts, and a payment of R1.3-million for their services, Grit Communications admitted the limited impact of their campaign due to the complexity of the allegations and internal challenges within Safa’s communication and executive teams.
The work of Grit Communications has come to light as part of court documents filed by Safa, wanting to declare a recent raid by the Hawks on its offices as unlawful, SowetanLIVE reported.
This raid was part of an investigation into alleged corruption, including the contracts between Safa, Jordaan, and companies like Grit Communications and Badger Security.
Jordaan has denied any personal benefit from the PR firm’s services.Â
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Danny Jordaan.
Image source: File
