Mbalula calls for reprimand of Bafana Bafana star Teboho Mokoena over EFF shout-out
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has strongly criticised Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena, urging the South African Football Association (SAFA) to reprimand the player for making remarks perceived as promoting the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) while representing the national team.
The controversy erupted after Mokoena, a Mamelodi Sundowns star, acknowledged EFF supporters during Bafana Bafana’s welcome home celebrations at OR Tambo International Airport following the team’s recent campaign.
Mbalula took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his disappointment, stating that national team platforms and the Bafana jersey should not be used for political messaging.
“Disappointed with Mokoena and SAFA. He must be reprimanded. Unbelievable. Don’t use our jersey to promote EFF. Do it at your leisure time,” Mbalula posted.
In a follow-up post, the ANC leader described the incident as “a calculated move” that was “deliberate and intentional,” noting that similar gestures were absent when Sundowns won the CAF Champions League. He emphasised that players are free to support any political party in their personal capacity but must not “abuse the national team.”
The remarks have sparked a heated political debate, with the EFF firing back. EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo defended Mokoena, accusing Mbalula of “generational jealousy” and political meddling, and asserting that the player “must not be intimidated.”
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has also weighed in, defending the principle that political affiliations have no place in national team duties.
As of now, SAFA has not publicly responded to Mbalula’s call for disciplinary action. The incident highlights ongoing tensions around the intersection of sport, politics, and national representation in South Africa.
