Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) has strongly condemned acts of violence that occurred during the Ingwenyama Cup match between Mbabane Highlanders FC and Nsingizini Hotspurs FC at the Mavuso Sports Centre on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
In a public statement dated February 23, 2026, the League expressed deep concern over the incident in which match officials were attacked by members of the crowd, describing the behavior as unacceptable and contrary to the values of sportsmanship, respect, and unity upon which the Ingwenyama Cup is founded.
The PLE extended sincere and unreserved apologies to His Majesty King Mswati III, the Patron of the Ingwenyama Cup, as well as to the country’s traditional leadership, boBabe Tikhulu. The League emphasized that the tournament remains a symbol of national pride and cultural celebration, and that the regrettable incident does not reflect the true spirit and dignity of the competition.
Apologies were also conveyed to the tournament’s official sponsor, the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF), whose partnership supports development, safety, and excellence in sport. The League reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity and reputation of the tournament.
Addressing the nation, the PLE expressed profound regret, noting that football is meant to unite communities and bring joy to supporters. It stressed that the actions of a few do not represent the character of Eswatini football fans.
In response, the League announced that immediate steps are being taken to strengthen security, reinforce disciplinary procedures, and promote responsible supporter conduct at all future matches.
The PLE Executive Committee, led by Chairman Polycarp Dlamini and Chief Executive Officer Petros Vilakati, has further directed the tournament’s Management Committee to compile a full report on the incident and consequence management, in line with applicable rules and regulations.
The League has called on clubs, supporters, administrators, and security providers to recommit themselves to fair play, mutual respect, and national unity, assuring the public that decisive measures will be implemented to prevent a recurrence and to ensure that the Ingwenyama Cup continues to serve as a proud platform for sporting excellence and cultural celebration.
