Mbabane Swallows fans have approached the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) seeking its intervention on the club’s current situation.
In a letter delivered to Sigwaca House on Friday afternoon, the supporters outlined 11 grievances and proposed that the current leadership step down, citing failure to properly manage the club.
One of the key concerns was the lack of transparency within the leadership, which the fans claimed was deterring potential sponsors.
They also alleged that the regime lacked sufficient funds to run the club, resulting in the loss of quality players to rival teams.
The red and white glamour outfit recently lost the services of Kwakhe Thwala, Ayanda Gadlela, Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, and Kingsley Kwayki to Nsingizini Hotspurs.
“We propose that they return the team to where it belongs. As the Premier League has intervened in other clubs’ crises, please also assist us as Mbabane Swallows supporters,” reads the letter.
Coincidentally, fans delivered their petition on the same day that Mbabane Swallows (PTY) Ltd issued a five-day ultimatum to Mbabane Swallows FC to surrender the team and its assets.
The two factions have long been embroiled in a dispute over the club’s ownership. Late last year, during a tense meeting at Thokoza Church Centre, Swallows FC handed the team over to Swallows (PTY) Ltd, owned by Princess Lungile. However, she later declined to assume control, citing debts exceeding E2 million.
PLE Chief Executive Officer Pat Vilakati said the supporters were advised to resolve their issues within the club’s internal structures.
“As PLE we only deals with our affiliates and not with supporters,” he said.
Mbabane Swallows supporter’s grievances
– No money to run team
– No formal report to supporters about current situation
– No transparency thus chasing away sponsors
– No clear plan going forward and we no longer trust current MC
– No attention on injured players
– Lost senior players
– Lost quality players and no explanation
– Lost Bishop Lukhele without explanation
– We dismally failed to defend league
– Welfare of players not good
– No meetings
