The ownership dispute at Mbabane Highlanders has finally come to an end, bringing much-needed stability to the capital city giants.
This follows the decision by former Managing Director Chief Ally Kgomongwe to officially hand over control of the club to South African businesswoman Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize on Tuesday.
The club has been in turmoil, amid challenges in transitioning to its new identity as Mbabane Highlanders AM FC. Complications arose as current Director Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane demanded a compensation fee of E1 million for the name change.
However, recent developments reveal that Kgomongwe stepped in to resolve the matter, leveraging his position as the majority shareholder. The Pretoria-based businessman holds an 80% stake in the black and white outfit.
Speaking yesterday, Kgomongwe confirmed he had handed over full control to Mkhize following a lengthy meeting that also included representatives from the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE).
“Yes, I have relinquished powers to Mkhize. She now holds 80% of the shares. They are currently in the process of registering the team under her company. I would also like to thank PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini for safeguarding my interests during this process. A lot was happening behind my back, but they stood firm,” he said.
Kgomongwe also announced the dismissal of Musa Masuku from his role as a Board of Governors representative.
“He was not acting in the best interests of the club, which is why I decided to remove him again. You may recall that I had previously called for his removal yet I was surprised to see him continue representing the team in meetings,” he said.
He further stated that his main concern now was the welfare of the players. Currently, the team is in KwaZulu-Natal for its pre-season camp under the guidance of coaches Ernest Mavuso and Sifiso ‘Barnes’ Mkhulisi. Former Royal AM General Manager Richard Makhoba has joined the club in the same role.
The newly rebranded Mbabane Highlanders AM FC will make their competitive debut in the 8 Bet Trade Fair Cup where they will face Ezulwini United in the preliminary round.
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