AS ’LANDERS INTERNAL STRIFE DEEPENS: FANS RENT BUS, BUY JERSEY FOR ‘BULL’

BUHLENI – Amid the ongoing internal turmoil at Mbabane Highlanders, some fans of the club literally took control of the team, two days ago.

Highlanders defeated Young Buffaloes 2-1 in a catch-up MTN Premier League match that was played at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre in northern Hhohho. However, the match displayed visible signs of the internal strife affecting the ‘Bull’s kraal’. Fans reportedly rented a Sprinter bus for the team and purchased a new kit on the day. However, Highlanders Managing Director (MD) Chief Ally Kgomongwe stated that these individuals were illegally running his business.  Highlanders are a registered company under Chief Kgomongwe’s leadership.

Notably absent during the Buffalloes game were several members of the management committee (MC). Head Coach Mthunzi Ginindza was also missing from the technical bench.
The team even had to rely on Buffaloes’ medical staff during the first-half, with only four substitutes available. They also travelled to the match in a rented Iveco sprinter, while sporting a new kit. Amid these challenges, the fans are said to have proved invaluable support, helping the Highlanders build momentum ahead of the Mbabane derby on Sunday.  According to a reliable source, a dedicated group of fans mobilised resources to ensure the team honoured the match in short notice.

Raised

The source indicated that the black and white outfit raised funds to purchase a new kit and rented the sprinter for E2 500, among other expenses. While the exact cost of the Nike kit remains undisclosed, it was reportedly procured in Manzini and taken to a local printer, where only the MTN League badge could be added in time for kick off.  The source further mentioned that the kit would be returned for additional printing as it was without the team badge.  “We might be wearing another new kit on Sunday,” the source hinted.

“It was the Highlanders supporters who joined forces and raised funds, as we often do for the players at the clubhouse. This was a collective effort from individuals who love the team,” the source said. However, clarity was lacking regarding the fate of the team’s previous gear and transport. One account suggested that everything was abandoned at the clubhouse, while another claimed it was inaccessible on the day of the match. “The intention was clear; we understand that the team needed to play, but everything was locked up, and they were only given playing cards,” another source stated. Additionally, it was revealed that the fans had been spending E400 daily to facilitate training for the team.

They expressed dissatisfaction, feeling that Kgomongwe had left the team entirely in their hands for the Buffaloes clash, only to plan a return to full control ahead of the derby. The source also mentioned that they had written to the Premier League Eswatini (PLE) requesting that Sunday’s gate takings be given to the players. However, by 3pm yesterday, PLE Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pat Vilakati had not received correspondence.

Request

When asked about the possibility of accommodating such a request, he stated that the organisation works with affiliated members, each of whom designates officials to liaise with them.
Highlanders MD Kgomongwe claimed that the team had been forcibly taken away from him.  He recounted being contacted on Wednesday and expressed frustration that those involved should have approached him earlier to request the team’s gear.  The South African businessman pointed out security concerns regarding the MC members and the absence of the coach from the game. “How could they have gone to the stadium when these individuals came to the club and forcefully took it from its rightful owner? They disrupted our training sessions and meetings,” he said.  “However, let me congratulate the players on their victory. If our coach had been there, we could have won by 10 goals.

“This win demonstrates a strong team I have assembled, and I wish the players and Highlanders fans the best for Sunday’s match,” he added. Kgomongwe further stated that a formal letter should be sent to him clearly detailing the requested amounts and percentages of the gate takings. He said he would then direct it to PLE to act on their wishes, if necessary, as he takes care of the affairs of the city giants. He condemned the actions of those currently in charge of the team and emphasised that the club still remains his property and that he will act on these latest developments.

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