Highlanders AM FC President Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize has formally apologised to referee Celumusa Siphepho, who was assaulted by supporters during chaotic scenes at the Mavuso Sports Centre last Sunday.
The apology follows violent disturbances that marred Highlanders’ Ingwenyama Cup clash against Nsingizini Hotspurs, resulting in the abandonment of the match. Siphepho sustained injuries during the unrest, which included a pitch invasion and physical confrontations.
Mkhize addressed the incident during an interview with the Eswatini TV Sports crew, while inspecting the Mavuso Sports Centre ahead of Sunday’s MTN Premier League fixture against Manzini Wanderers.
“As the president of Mbabane Highlanders AM FC, I value professionalism and peace in sport, and I am completely against violence. What happened last weekend did not demonstrate sportsmanship. Our humblest apologies to the referee, and we wish him a speedy recovery,” said Mkhize.
She stressed that the safety of players, officials, and supporters would be prioritised when the team returns to the venue this weekend.
“As Mbabane Highlanders, we want to prioritise the safety of players, fans, referees, and everyone involved,” she added.
The South African businesswoman revealed that the club had engaged the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) following the incident to address security concerns, particularly the lack of perimeter fencing around the pitch.
“We had a telephone conversation with the PLE CEO and discussed the fears of people on the ground. We understand that the pitch does not have fencing. We have come here with people to assist us in putting up a boundary fence to help secure the stadium so that supporters cannot easily enter the pitch. We are awaiting feedback from the stadium manager after he reports to his superiors,” Mkhize explained.
She noted that the incident exposed weaknesses in the stadium’s infrastructure and security arrangements:
“The incident on Sunday involved four teams at the stadium, and the way the venue is structured, there is no security barrier around the pitch,” she said.
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Highlanders now face serious disciplinary proceedings after an investigation by the Ingwenyama Cup Management Committee, which found the club responsible for three major offences. The findings have been submitted to the PLE for further action.
The club was scheduled to appear before the EFADC yesterday, but the matter was postponed due to short notice. Sources said the investigation was conducted swiftly but thoroughly.
Allegations include:
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Failing to control supporters, leading to a volatile pitch invasion
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Assault of match officials
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Abandonment of the match
If found guilty, Mbabane Highlanders could face fines exceeding E100 000 under Ingwenyama Cup rules, with the assault of a match official carrying the heaviest sanction.
Sunday’s fixture against Manzini Wanderers will take place under heightened scrutiny, with both club and league authorities tasked to restore order and rebuild confidence in match-day security.
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Despite formal charges, Highlanders reiterated their position on seeking a match replay.
Mbabane Highlanders Public Relations Officer Zwide Nxumalo said:
“The club’s position has not changed on wanting a replay. We are still waiting for more reports as we look to properly scrutinize and understand the charges. There were also some things we noted during the match which we want to corroborate using the reports.”
