Businesswoman and controversial football club owner Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize has publicly apologised to Bloemfontein Celtic supporters, nearly four years after purchasing and relocating the club to KwaZulu-Natal in a move that effectively erased its presence from South African football.
In an interview on Metro FM, MaMkhize expressed regret for her handling of the 2021 acquisition of Bloemfontein Celtic – which she rebranded to Royal AM – a decision that left the club’s passionate Siwelele fanbase devastated.
“I sincerely apologise to its supporters for the name change; I could have done better. I could have done as I did now,” said MaMkhize.
“I told myself that I would not change the name of the team that was founded in 1952.”
Royal AM’s fall from grace
The apology comes on the heels of Royal AM’s expulsion from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) during the 2024/25 season, following repeated failure to honour fixtures.
Adding to the controversy, the Pretoria High Court recently ruled that the PSL had long had the right to expel Royal AM, even before the match no-shows.
The ruling cited unauthorised transfer of shares and false information provided in the club’s original PSL membership application.
New chapter: Mbabane Highlanders AM FC
On Saturday, MaMkhize was announced as the new president of Eswatini giants Mbabane Highlanders, a team with deep roots in southern African football, dating back to 1969.
Under her leadership, the team has been renamed Mbabane Highlanders AM FC, and will now sport black kits with golden accents, a break from the club’s traditional black-and-white identity.
Despite the changes, MaMkhize has promised to preserve the legacy and soul of the club.
“When you look at Mbabane Highlanders, it is structured similarly to Bloemfontein Celtic. The team has committees, a history, and a large fanbase. I felt it was inappropriate to break their hearts,” she said.
“I’m just putting something in place that will represent me and my son, but that will still allow the people who love Mbabane Highlanders to continue seeing it as the team they know.”
Criticism and questions linger
Despite the fanfare around the Highlanders takeover, critics remain sceptical of MaMkhize’s motivations.
Questions have emerged over whether the move is a genuine effort to stay involved in football or another high-profile display of power.
Last season, Mbabane Highlanders finished eighth in the Swazi MTN Premier League – a modest showing for a club with championship ambitions.
It remains to be seen whether MaMkhize’s influence can turn around their fortunes on the pitch while maintaining the respect of a loyal fanbase.
Only a matter of time before MaMkhize destroys Mbabane Highlanders as well?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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