Africa-Press – Eswatini. Dreams have been shattered for three seasoned football administrators, who have been disqualified to run for the Premier League of Eswatini Executive Committee vacant position.
The post was previously occupied by Tambuti boss Rudolf ‘Rhoo’ Matsenjwa, who sold the team’s status to Ezulwini United before the start of the current season.
The deadline for nominations was October 13 after the vacancy was declared on August 13.
Independent investigations discovered that Tambankulu Callies Chairman Sithembiso ‘Ngudze’ Mamba, Manzini Wanderers Board of Governor Bongani ‘Bhanyaza’ Mdluli and Young Buffaloes Board of Governor Jabulani Dlamini, were disqualified by the newly-appointed electoral committee headed by Magistrate Zakhele Dlamini.
The PLE Executive Committee has already convened an Extra-Ordinary General Assembly slated for January 13, 2024 at Sigwaca House.
Information gathered is that the seasoned administrors could not meet one of the requirements, which states that they must have a certificate in any administration course. The vetting was held recently.
The Electoral Committee reportedly cited the PLE Constitution Article 33(5) (e), where it says,
“Candidates for the elections of the Executive Committee members shall have a training in football administration and shall have played an active role in the association (e.g. as a player or any official within the EFA structures, PLE etc. for two or five years before being proposed as a candidate.”
However, it has been reliably gathered that the trio lodged an appeal with the Appeals Committee, challenging the decision.
It has been learnt that they are also receiving backing from the Premier League of Eswatini.
Sources revealed that the trio stands a chance to win the appeal, as some of the current PLE Executive Committee members allegedly do not possess the administration course certificates.
PLE Football Manager Pat Vilakati referred questions to the chief executive officer.
“I am not be privy to such information, may you please contact our CEO. I think he could be in a better position to shed the light,” he said.
CEO Kenneth Makhanya said the matter did not fall under his jurisdiction.
“The vacancy matters are being processed by the EFA Ethics Committee,” he said briefly.
Meanwhile, one of the aggrieved contestants confirmed that he had lodged an appeal.
“Yes, I filed my appeal on Friday to the Appeals Committee. I’m not challenging the PLE. The PLE is actually in support, and has written letters supporting our candidacy,” he claimed.
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