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Wanderers Poised for Premier League Return

By Sibusiso Masilela

Wonderful news is brewing for the frustrated Manzini Wanderers faithful—the beloved ‘Weslians’ are on the brink of a dramatic return to the MTN Premier League.

After a lengthy period in football limbo, the hub giants are poised to reclaim their spot in Eswatini’s top-tier league, thanks to fresh negotiations between the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) and the club. The latest developments mark a potential turning point in a protracted legal battle that has sidelined one of the country’s most iconic teams.

 

 



According to inside sources, the EFA has formally assured Wanderers of their Premier League status for the upcoming season. The move comes as part of ongoing discussions aimed at resolving the dispute stemming from the controversial relegation decision that rocked the football landscape last year.

Manzini Wanderers’ legal team addressing their supporters and officials at the high court.

The roots of the saga date back to May 19, 2024, when Manzini Wanderers were dealt a crushing 4–2 defeat by Denver Sundowns at Somhlolo National Stadium—a result that sealed their relegation from the elite league. The match became the centre of controversy after it emerged that Sundowns defender Jimoh Moses had played while ineligible, a violation that sparked outrage among the Wanderers’ camp.

 

 



In a landmark ruling on September 27, 2024, Judge Mumcy Dlamini declared Wanderers a Premier League team, citing the irregularities surrounding Moses’ eligibility. However, the ruling was never implemented by the EFA or the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE), prompting the maroon-and-white outfit to escalate the matter.

Wanderers filed a contempt of court application against EFA President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane and CEO Frederick Mngometulu, accusing the football leaders of defying the court order.

RELATED: Wanderers in FIFA ban scare

The case took a new turn on May 17, 2025, when Judge Mumcy Dlamini presided over the contempt proceedings. However, the EFA’s legal representative, Hlomla Mdladla, requested a postponement, citing ongoing negotiations between the association and Wanderers. The matter is now set to return to court on May 30, 2025.

 

 



“The EFA has sent a letter to Wanderers assuring them of their Premier League status. The two sides are working on finalising the matter, and the outcome will be formally presented in court later this month,” said a legal insider involved in the case, speaking to the Eswatini Sunday on condition of anonymity.

RELATED: Weslians defender Banele Dlamini collapses, dies during Stokvel games

While legal battles rage on, the Premier League of Eswatini has been undergoing its own transformation. A new 16-team league structure has been announced, with Mbabane Swallows Governor Welile Mabuza appointed as chair of the new league committee.

Manzini Wanderers fans

However, Wanderers’ exclusion remains a sore point for many football fans who have long considered the club a pillar of local football tradition.

 

 



Wanderers’ legal battle has cast a spotlight on the governance of local football, with supporters and observers alike calling for greater transparency and respect for judicial rulings.

As the May 30 court date looms, anticipation is mounting in Manzini and beyond. The return of the Weslians would not only restore balance to the elite league but also reignite one of the most passionate fan bases in the kingdom.

For now, the maroon-and-white supporters wait in hope—and growing excitement—as their club edges closer to the comeback they’ve been dreaming of.

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