Swazi Observer

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‘HIGHLANDERS WILL NOT DIE ON MY WATCH’

By XOLISILE SACOLO | 2024-05-09

SOCCER - MBABANE Highlanders stakeholders should heave a sigh of relief after the Director Chief Ally Kgomongwe committed himself to the team again despite its poor performance this season.

The chief says the team will not die under his watch and will now focus on bringing back the glory days.

He said despite not being a regular feature during the team’s games, he was committed to provide financial and social support to the club.

Kgomongwe said this during a meeting with the team’s National Supporters Committee (NSC) in Pretoria, South Africa.

“I am aware that all is not well in the team. The good thing is that we will now strategise and build a strong team for next season.”

He appealed for calm and support from all Highlanders people.
“I will not allow Highlanders to die under my watch. I must make it clear that I am still committed to provide financial and social support to the team,” he said.

He apologised to the players for sometimes receiving their salaries late.
“Players are aware of the pay date and if the money is delayed, it's normally one or two days.” He further emphasised the need to revive the team, something that required the involvement of all stakeholders.

Mbabane Highlanders PRO Kenneth Dlamini thanked the MD for the fruitful meeting. “First and foremost, we would like to pass our sincere appreciation to our MD for accepting the request to have an audience with him. We are also thankful to his warm welcome and making sure that the delegation was well catered for, including the provision of meals and first class accommodation.” Dlamini said this was a step in the right direction.

“The MD acknowledged that the team did not do well this season and called for double effort from everyone to put it in the right shape for next season. He also promised to be close to the team next season as the elections in South Africa will be over by then,” Dlamini said.

He said the purpose of the meeting was to clarify some of the issues making rounds on social media.

“This was also meant to give the MD an opportunity to make known his side and vision about Highlanders. The meeting was a success and the objectives were met.

“During the meeting, the NSC raised some issues, including the Admiral sponsorship, people purportedly trying to push the director out, as well as allegations of the NSC members colluding with those rebelling against the MD.

“After having clarified the above issues sanity then prevailed. The director pointed out that he needed time for a discussion with regards the sponsor. However, if a sponsor comes with a sound and lucrative offer, then his hands are open. Consultations and verification will be done before a sponsor is considered,” Dlamini said.

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