MBABANE – The Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) has approached an invitation from a parliamentary select committee with major caution.
The committee, chaired by Mtfongwaneni Member of Parliament (MP) Nathi ‘Mdockies’ Hlophe, met with the PLE Executive Committee in a closed-door session at Parliament yesterday morning.
According to the Terms of Reference, the inquiry is part of an investigation into the administration and governance of football in the country, with a specific focus on the PLE.
The select committee noted that the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Culture and Youth Affairs has highlighted recurring incidents of violence and pitch invasions at matches. The most recent act of violence occurred a month ago, when an Ingwenyama Cup fixture between Mbabane Highlanders and Nsingizini Hotspurs had to be abandoned.
The committee further suggested that concerns have been raised regarding potential negligence, governance failures, and regulatory violations within the league’s administration.
In response to these issues, the House of Assembly passed a resolution for a comprehensive 21-day investigation and oversight engagement during the adoption of the Portfolio Committee’s Annual Performance Report for the 2025/2026 financial year.
The probe outlines eight key objectives. However, yesterday’s meeting was adjourned before reaching a conclusion. Chairman Hlophe noted that while the session was productive, the committee granted the PLE’s request for more time to review the Terms of Reference. A follow-up meeting is expected next week.
“The PLE argued they needed more time to respond to certain matters raised, as they felt the timeframe to review the provided documentation was too short,” Hlophe said.
Hlophe added that Parliament’s intention is to help rectify issues within local football, a task he believes requires the PLE’s guidance. He described the organisation as the heart of local football, possessing the firsthand experience necessary to identify the challenges hindering the sport’s progress in the kingdom.
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PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini (R) and Executive member Sibusiso ‘Scorpion’ Nxumalo follow proceedings during yesterday’s appearance before the Parliamentary Select Committee. (Pic: Nimrod Hlophe)