PLE SHIFTS INTO HIGH GEAR WITH NEW FLEET
MBABANE – The Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) is gearing up for enhanced operations after reportedly securing two new vehicles.
The vehicles, believed to be Toyota Rumion models, were spotted at Sigwaca House car parking lot yesterday afternoon. They have since been branded and are expected to be deployed today for the Ingwenyama Cup finals at Somhlolo National Stadium.
According to 2025 pricing from some local car dealerships, each vehicle is valued at between E301 400 for the Rumion 1.5 S and E390 300 for the Rumion 1.5 TX automatic.
This suggests a potential total expenditure of approximately E600 000 for the pair. According to Toyota, the Rumion is a 7-seater Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV).
However, PLE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pat ‘Kungumusa’ Vilakati was unavailable for comment yesterday afternoon when approached for clarification regarding the exact value and the operational benefits for the organisation, which has previously relied on two smaller cars.
The news of these acquisitions is not entirely new, as rumours have circulated within the PLE for some time. Top officials remained tight-lipped until the vehicles were spotted yesterday.
Purposes
A well-placed source revealed the vehicles will serve various purposes, notably transporting match officials to games.
“It’s reportedly been an open secret that the cost of transporting match officials has been a significant burden for the organisation,” the source stated.
“With the PLE seeking firmer financial footing, obtaining these vehicles is expected to help reduce transport costs, meaning the organisation might only need to cover officials’ allowances moving forward.”
Currently, top-flight league teams pay E60 000 per season in match officiating fees, while National First Division teams pay E40 000.
With these new vehicles, the PLE aims to drive down expenses and streamline operations.
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