Africa-Press – Eswatini. The stage is set for the upcoming Eswatini Referees Association elections, scheduled for 28 September 2025, with a diverse slate of nominees unveiled this week. The elections are expected to usher in a new era of leadership for referees in the country, with several key positions hotly contested.
The Chairperson’s seat will see a three-man race between Simanga Nhleko, Mbongiseni Fakudze, and Esrom Dlamini, each bringing their own vision for strengthening referee structures and improving welfare.
The Vice Chairperson position has attracted the largest number of candidates, with six names Phinda Ndzimandze, Sifiso Nxumalo, Mbongiseni Fakudze, Sabelo Kunene, Thulani Nkonyane, and Libnah Sibiya set to battle it out, reflecting the high interest and stakes around this leadership role.
While Mbongeni Shongwe (Secretary General) and Kuhle Mkhatshwa (Treasury) will run unopposed, the Vice Secretary General race between Thulani Nkonyane and Sifiso Nxumalo promises a closely watched contest.
The Members’ category, where only two candidates will be elected, features a long list of eight hopefuls: Sifiso Nxumalo, Lungile Nxumalo, Thami Ginindza, Thembi Mathonsi, Esrom Dlamini, Thulani Nkonyane, Petros Mbingo, and Sandile Mkhabela.
This year’s elections are significant, as referees continue to push for greater support, professional training, and regional representation. The incoming leadership will face the responsibility of addressing challenges such as limited development opportunities, referee welfare, and the need for stronger governance structures.
As September 28 draws closer, anticipation is building within the refereeing community, with hopes that the elections will produce leaders capable of uniting officials and driving Eswatini refereeing to new heights.
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