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

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.

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