The Big 5 , led by Joko drags CGA and ASA to Court
CGA members (The big 5) have served summons on both CGA and ASA, contesting the January elections as fundamentally flawed and irregular.
Suspended CGA members during a press conference.
Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) members (The big 5) have launched an urgent court action against Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) and Athletics South Africa (ASA), challenging the legitimacy of January 2026 elections. They are seeking to halt the new board's operations amid claims of irregular processes and retaliatory suspensions.
Background of the governance crisis
The dispute traces back to allegations of financial misconduct within ASA, where President James Moloi and acting CEO Terrence Magogodela admitted in Parliament to using the federation's credit card for personal expenses, including at shebeens and clothing stores. This sparked demands for accountability from several CGA members.
The suspensions and exclusion from elections
In response to calls for transparency, five CGA members, Mfuneko Joko, Ernest Moikangoa, Keinelwe Sesing, Dora Mngwevu, and Thulani Sibisi were suspended in August 2025. They argue that these suspensions were retaliatory, unlawfully barring some of their members from participating in or contesting the CGA elections held in late January 2026. Co
Core legal challenges
Joko, who is the main applicant confirmed that they served summons on both CGA and ASA, contesting the January elections as fundamentally flawed and irregular.
Key claims include:
- Violations of constitutional procedures in the electoral process.
- The need to set aside the results and hold fresh elections.
- An interim interdict to prevent the newly elected CGA board from exercising its duties until the court rules.
Their legal team, led by Geréome Buys, emphasized that allowing the board to continue would entrench an allegedly unlawful process. Only CGA has responded to the summons so far, with ASA yet to file opposing papers.
The administrator's role and controversies
Following the disputes, Magogodela appointed Trevor Fredericks as CGA administrator. Fredericks was given broad powers, including convening meetings and safeguarding the province's integrity. However, several CGA-affiliated clubs objected, citing lack of consultation and questions about Fredericks' credentials and background. Fredericks oversaw preparations for the January elections, which proceeded despite ongoing tensions.
Today's court hearing and potential impact
The matter is set for hearing today, 3 March 2026 at Johannesburg High Court. A ruling could reshape governance in South African athletics by either upholding the recent elections or ordering a redo, with broader implications for electoral integrity, administrative interventions, and financial oversight across the sport.
Joko said: “We decided to take the legal route because we were prejudiced. We were unlawfully suspended and excluded from all CGA activities, including the elections. We warned them, but they wouldn’t listen. That is why we are here today.”
This escalating conflict highlights deep divisions within the sport, with calls for greater accountability and adherence to proper procedures. The outcome will likely influence trust and stability in athletics structures nationwide.