Times Of Swaziland: LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL AS ... OLD MC FLY BACK INTO ‘BIRDS’ NEST

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL AS ... OLD MC FLY BACK INTO ‘BIRDS’ NEST
================================================================================
Sanele Jele on 03/12/2024 14:30:00


MBABANE –Capital City giants Mbabane Swallows have resolved to reinstate its
original management committee (MC), following an intense two-hour closed
meeting, yesterday.
The meeting, mediated by the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE), convened the
factions to seek a definitive resolution to their protracted deadlock. This
discord emerged when the original committee, led by Acting President Absalom
Ngwenya, resigned and surrendered the team to Princess Lungile faction, who
subsequently rejected it. The princess voiced concerns on national radio
regarding the team’s financial woes, asserting that they could not accept a
team burdened with debts exceeding E2 million. She elaborated that the club had
been debt-free when transferred to the original committee.
Inciting
The original committee’s disbandment stemmed from allegations that Princess
Lungile’s faction was inciting player dissent and undermining their
leadership, exacerbated by players boycotting training sessions and matches. At
a press conference held at Sigwaca House yesterday, a representative of Princess
Lungile, Mduduzi Hlophe, conveyed a sense of optimism, stating: “The
discussions were fruitful, and we reached a consensus that the original
committee, which has been managing the team, will persist in its role. We have
agreed to address any issues collaboratively as they arise. The committee will
continue its stewardship until further notice, and we anticipate smooth sailing
ahead.”
He further noted the mutual understanding fostered during the mediation process.
“In matters concerning Swallows, we engage as a family. We implore
stakeholders, supporters and the nation to embrace our agreement. Every family
faces challenges, but we remain committed to resolving our issues amicably
moving forward.” Ngwenya also commented, urging the opposing faction not to
seek intervention from the PLE prior to attempting to resolve differences
internally. “They should have approached our office first to express their
grievances. I must caution against any attempts to persuade players to boycott
games, as this undermine our efforts to manage the club effectively.” His
remarks were met with murmurs of discontent from Princess Lungile’s faction.
Swallows’ MC Chairman Welile Mabuza affirmed the resolution to retain the
original committee’s leadership. “We accept this new arrangement, but we
must report to our stakeholders, and we will navigate the way forward from
there,” he said, inviting collaboration from the other faction to contribute
to the team’s welfare.  PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini expressed gratitude to
both parties for reaching a consensus, underscoring that familial disputes are
commonplace.
Solutions
“Both factions represent Swallows. We appreciate the constructive dialogue
between them. Should issues arise in the future, we possess the right to engage
in discussions to seek solutions. We are relieved that we reached an agreement,
allowing the team to continue honouring its fixtures.” Dlamini acknowledged
the heavy burdens currently facing the club, emphasising its significant legacy
and the livelihoods of players, coaches and stakeholders. “Swallows are a
storied club, and we cannot stand idly by while it grapples with its challenges.
Our objective is to ensure that the team thrives.”
He maintained that the existing leadership would remain intact, as separation of
the two factions was not the intention—familial unity was paramount.  When
asked how to avert future disagreements, the PLE chairman assured that the
current leadership would operate smoothly and expressed hope that players would
return to training and compete in upcoming matches. “Misunderstandings are
part of every family, often exacerbated by poor communication. However, the PLE
will facilitate operational efficiency, and any necessary changes will be
communicated as needed.”
Addressing concerns regarding resources, he indicated that both factions must
collaborate to realise their goals. On the persistent calls for players to
boycott games, he affirmed that team structures would not tolerate such
disruptions. He urged adherence to club protocols to resolve conflicts.
Regarding the coaching situation, the PLE Chairman indicated that this remained
an administrative matter for the MC to determine. He expressed confidence that
the team would honour its upcoming fixtures, thanking Royal Leopard for their
understanding regarding last weekend’s postponed match due to the leadership
crisis. Earlier reports suggested that Coach Caleb Ngwenya might resign, should
the opposing faction seize control. It could not be immediately ascertained if
he will return to the team.
Scheduled
Enquiries regarding the rescheduled fixture against Leopard or the subsequent
match-up against Nsingizini Hotspurs revealed that the PLE’s office would
manage any administrative decisions moving forward. The leadership crisis
echoing within Swallows is a familiar narrative, reminiscent of the challenges
faced by the Glazer family, owners of Manchester United.
The Glazers have garnered significant criticism from fans for prioritising
financial interests at the expense of the club’s sporting success, leading to
persistent protests advocating for their departure. Current discussions
regarding a potential partial sale or investment only serve to amplify the
uncertainty surrounding the club’s future trajectory.