Request for POLICE at ASA elections raises serious red flags

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has issued a call for calm, unity, and transparency ahead of the upcoming Athletics South Africa (ASA) elections, scheduled for 31 May 2025 at Garden Court OR Tambo.

The party has voiced deep concern over what it describes as “worrying developments” within the federation’s leadership and election processes.

The DA’s statement comes in response to a formal request by ASA President James Moloi for police presence at the elective meeting, a move the DA says signals severe dysfunction within ASA’s leadership structures.

‘Teetering of the edge of chaos’

“Electoral processes within sports federations should be peaceful, democratic exercises, not events that require law enforcement to prevent unrest,” the party said.

“The fact that such a request was deemed necessary signals a federation in disarray and teetering on the edge of chaos.”

Further signs of turbulence within ASA include legal threats from license holders, the withdrawal of nominees from Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA), and reports of additional provincial pullouts ahead of the vote.

“The looming presence of the police at what should be a straightforward elective meeting is unprecedented and deeply shameful,” the DA added.

‘Recommit to unity and integrity‘

The DA has urged ASA members and stakeholders to put aside factionalism and commit to a transparent, fair, and democratic election process governed by the rule of law.

“These elections must not be tainted by intimidation or interference,” the party said.

“They must be governed by fairness, the rule of law, and a shared commitment to the long-term wellbeing of South African athletics.”

The opposition party also warned that the latest round of ASA infighting is part of a broader, recurring pattern of administrative dysfunction.

ASA has been repeatedly criticised by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sport for governance failures, financial mismanagement, and internal disputes – issues that the DA says have been “too often funded at the taxpayer’s expense.”

Celebrating athletes, not chaos

Amid the growing disarray, the DA pointed to the extraordinary performances of South African athletes, who continue to shine despite the instability at ASA.

Citing 19-year-old Bayanda Walaza’s record-breaking 9.94 in the 100m in Zagreb this past weekend, the party lamented how such feats are overshadowed by the federation’s leadership failures.

“Moments like these should be celebrated nationally, not buried under boardroom drama,” the DA said.

“Our athletes deserve more than mismanagement and infighting. They deserve a federation that reflects the principles of accountability, professionalism, and unity.”

With the ASA elections days away, all eyes are on the federation to demonstrate maturity and responsibility in managing its internal affairs.

The DA reiterated its stance that South African athletes’ dedication must be matched by leadership that honours the flag they represent.

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