Swazi Observer

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CHARLES BLASTS PLE EXCO

By JONGILE XUBA | 2025-02-28

SOCCER - PIGG’S Peak Black Swallows Director Charles Matsebula called on members of the PLE executive committee to act with professionalism and uphold the integrity of the association.

He voiced concerns over what he deemed an unprofessional conduct within the executive’s ranks.
This is according to a voice note that was recorded by an insider who was part of the proceedings during the BoGs meeting on Wednesday. The audio was also shared on social media.

Referring to the recent Supreme Court ruling in favour of Manzini Wanderers, Matsebula expressed dissatisfaction with alleged comments made by an executive member.

He stressed that certain behaviours were unbecoming of those in positions of leadership within the PLE. “As a member of the executive, there is a certain way you must behave and maintain neutrality when it comes to some issues.

We have also heard recent reports that some executive members go and represent their teams at disciplinary hearings, which is unethical. We are just asking for a way to hold members accountable,” he said.

The outspoken director went on to question the effectiveness of the existing code of ethics, which was introduced to ensure accountability within the executive committee. Matsebula expressed uncertainty over its current status, pointing out that the concept of signing a code of ethics seemed to have faded.

“Last I checked, there was a code of ethics that was supposed to be signed, so I don’t know what happened to that idea,” he said.

To reinforce his call for accountability, Matsebula proposed that fines be imposed on executive members found guilty of violating any codes of conduct.

“Any member who will be seen to have contravened the code of conduct should be fined. Why is it that only clubs are fined and not members of the executive? Let us all be called into order so that we can improve the image of the PLE,” he said.

Matsebula’s sentiments were echoed by Moneni Pirates Governor Osborne Nzima, who said some exco members acted childish.

“We hear some exco members say thing without even considering how they would sit with the next person.”

Nzima said Exco members were expected to behave in a certain way.
When asked about the audio, Matsebula politely declined to comment on matters that were discussed during the meeting.

Premier League of Eswatini CEO Petros ‘Pat’ Vilakati stated that the chairman addressed issues of conduct, emphasising that the message was not directed solely at executive members. He clarified that all governors were urged to set a shining example of proper conduct for their respective clubs.

"The concern about conduct was not directed only at the Board of Governors (BoGs), they were all reminded to carry themselves well and avoid actions that could incite violence or bring the game into disrepute. I cannot single out any individual and say they were the one being cautioned," he said.

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