Mangaung 2010 officials questioned over funds

The Mangaung 2010 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has been asked to do some serious explaining after apparently asking for millions to upgrade 2010 practice stadiums while they could have received training facilities free of charge.

The committee has asked for R200 million to upgrade the Seisa Ramabodu and Botshabelo stadiums. They apparently rejected requests by the University of the Free State and the Central University of Technology to use their facilities at no extra cost. Democratic Alliance councillor Patricia Kopane says the municipality is misusing funds.

Meanwhile, chairperson of the LOC for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Irvin Khoza has commended South Africans for their unreserved support in making the dream the entire world has wished for, a reality for the continent.

Khoza says South Africa is well on track with regard to the preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He attributed the success the country has so far achieved in its preparations to the efforts of all South Africans as well as all stakeholders involved.

However, Khoza says there is still more that needs to be done to finalise the preparations for the 2010 soccer events. Khoza further commended government for the financial support that has enabled them and the nine host cities the ability to carry out their mandate.