SAFA have confirmed the appointment of Lydia Monyepao as the association’s new CEO with immediate effect. Monyepao, who is the second SAFA female CEO, takes over from Advocate Tebogo Motlanthe. The first SAFA female CEO was Pinky Lehoko. 

Motlanthe tendered his resignation from the association last week and has been tipped to be going to take over a high position at the PSL. The Seshego born, Motlanthe insists there is no bad blood between him and the association and he leaves on good terms. 

SAFA APPOINT NEW CEO 

“It’s indeed true that I have tendered my resignation, I have sent a letter which I have signed,” Motlanthe told the media on Monday.

“The one which is on social media I would love to categorically say it’s not my letter. Mime has a signature and my reasons are simple, personal, and private.

“I have told the association that I will not enough serving a months notice. I am resigning with immediate effect and as in my contract, they can then take my monthly salary. But I am leaving with immediate effect,” he explained. 

“I don’t have any bad blood with anyone, Including the president. We have a good working relationship and he has been a father and has guided me. It’s just a personal decision which I have taken.”

Meanwhile, Monyepao who was the association’s COO before her appointment says she is up to the task. 

I was working with advocate Motlanthe on many issues and the important issues around South African football. So I do have the knowledge in terms of what was happening and what needs to carry forward,” she said. 

“It’s big shoes that I am filling but I think I have to hit the ground running. I am capable of hitting the ground running. So I will take the task and take the work forward. I am not naive in terms of what is required from this job, I know the challenges that surround the South African Football Association.”

WHO IS LYDIA MONYEPAO? 

Lydia Monyepao has played for Banyana Banyana and was part of the 2002 and the 2004 Women’s Afcon and 2003 All Africa Games. She also managed the team between 2012 and 2014 and was also the team’s Liaison Officer at the 2010 Women’s Afcon. 

By Khotso Ramalatswa