Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) has announced a second opportunity for ladies from Nkhomiyahlaba Inkhundla to participate in the annual army recruitment race. The make-up race is scheduled for Wednesday, 8 October 2025, at 2pm, following the original race at Mkhiweni Inkhundla.
The decision comes after allegations of cheating during the gruelling two-fold 3.2-kilometre race. During the original event, Nontobeko Sihlongonyane (28) emerged as the winner, with Siphosethu Vilakati (23) and Siphesihle Khumalo (22) also finishing among the top three.
However, questions arose during registration concerning the stamps placed on participants’ arms. Each participant is stamped at the start and again at the 1.6-kilometre halfway point to confirm they completed the first half of the race. The three ladies were suspected of fraudulently obtaining stamps from fellow participants rather than completing the halfway mark themselves.
Their alleged actions sparked outrage among fellow competitors, who protested that the winners had not fairly completed the course. In response, the UEDF Recruitment Committee announced the rescheduled race to ensure fairness and transparency.
Strong Warning Issued
Brigadier General Thabo Luhlanga expressed disappointment with the alleged cheating, warning that such behaviour could have serious consequences. “If it were up to me, no one among the ladies would have won because of acts of dishonesty,” he said. “In the UEDF, Military Police (MPs) investigate such matters thoroughly. Those suspected may have to submit written statements to clarify the situation.”
Brigadier Luhlanga emphasised that integrity and discipline are central to the UEDF, and any actions undermining these values will not be tolerated.
Winners of the Original Race
Despite the controversy among the female participants, the male category proceeded smoothly. Bonginkhosi Stewart (24) and Thabiso Mavuso (26) secured first and second places, respectively, after months of preparation following His Majesty King Mswati III’s announcement of the UEDF recruitment drive.
The upcoming race for Nkhomiyahlaba ladies is expected to restore fairness, offering participants a renewed opportunity to demonstrate endurance, discipline, and commitment to serve the nation.
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