Swimming South Africa Reaffirms Commitment to Governance and Due Process

Swimming South Africa (SSA) notes with concern the recent misleading media reports regarding allegations against Western Cape Aquatics, an Affiliate member of SSA. We take this opportunity to provide clarity and reaffirm our commitment to governance, due process, and transparency.

SSA upholds the highest standards of governance, particularly in managing disputes and ensuring that all disciplinary matters follow due process. In the case of Ms. Nabilah Diedericks, SSA referred the matter to Western Cape Aquatics, as it falls under their jurisdiction. A formal disciplinary hearing was conducted, presided over by an independent Chairperson, and a verdict was reached following the proper procedures.

Ms. Diedericks had the right to appeal within 14 days of the verdict, a window that closed on 21 February 2025. She chose not to exercise this right and instead approached the media. It is important to note that the President of Western Cape Aquatics responded to the journalist from Voice of Cape Town with both a statement and a voice note, refuting claims that questions went unanswered.

Furthermore, SSA firmly stands by the legitimacy of its governance structures and election processes. Our Quadrennial AGM, held in August 2024, adhered strictly to our constitution, with no breaches or irregularities. The election process was conducted transparently, overseen by an independent party, and followed SSA’s constitutional guidelines to the letter.

SSA’s General Counsel holds the authority to review, approve, or reject any actions or principles that do not align with lawful and constitutional governance. We emphasize that World Aquatics has fully endorsed our constitution and validated our election as legitimate. Additionally, we welcome the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) report on our election processes, further reinforcing the credibility of our governance framework.

SSA remains committed to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in all its operations, ensuring that due process is followed in all disputes and governance matters.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mafata Modutoane

mafata.modutoane@swimsa.org or 073 226 5688.

Swimming South Africa is the governing body of aquatics in South Africa.

Its objective is to encourage the practice of aquatic disciplines for all in South Africa with the purpose of promoting swimming as a life skill through Learn to Swim programmes; providing healthy exercise to South Africans of all ages and races; recruiting recreational swimmers to compete in the various competitions; and promoting competition and athlete development to the highest level. Swimming South Africa is kindly supported by SASCOC, National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, Arena, Sport & Recreation SA and Rand Water.