Highlanders FC Deal Collapses as MaMkhize Misses Critical Deadline
Mbabane Highlanders AM Football Club has officially cancelled its much-anticipated rebranding. Durban businesswoman Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize failed to meet the crucial deadline to officially assume ownership of the team.
According to a report by Soccer Laduma, the Eswatini Premier Soccer League (EPSL) confirmed that Mkhize did not complete the necessary steps by the stipulated date of 21 July. This includes the signing of handover documentation and the registration of the new ownership.
Deadline Missed, Ownership Unchanged
EPSL CEO Pat Vilakati explained the situation, saying, “Yes, at the moment, the team hasn’t changed its ownership and name.” He said, “We expected Miss Shauwn Mkhize and the current director, Mr Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane, to sign the ownership transfer documents by the closing date, but they failed to do so.”
The ownership saga appears to have hit a financial snag. Mkhize was reportedly expected to pay a compensation fee to Simelane, who still holds an active 18-month contract with the club. Without this payment, Simelane is reportedly unwilling to proceed with the handover process.
Vilakati said the league is aware that the compensation fee remains unpaid. “So for now, the club remains under the leadership of Mr Simelane.”
No Name Change, No “AM” Branding
Due to the collapse of the ownership deal, Highlanders FC will start the new season under their original name. The club will not reference the “AM” branding that was meant to align it with Mkhize’s previous venture, Royal AM.
The intended rebranding mirrored Mkhize’s now-defunct Royal AM team. The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) recently expelled this team due to financial difficulties. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) placed the club under sale in an attempt to recover approximately R40 million in unpaid taxes from Mkhize.
Uncertain Future for MaMkhize in Football
MaMkhize’s attempt to re-enter the football scene through Eswatini now faces serious uncertainty. The failed deal has not only halted her ambitions in Eswatini football. It also raises fresh questions about her financial standing and long-term plans in the sport.
For now, Highlanders fans can expect their team to continue operating as usual. There will be no glitz, drama, and rebranding that MaMkhize’s takeover would have brought.
Related article: MaMkhize’s Fleet of Luxury Cars and Royal AM Bus Headed for Auction
