The 2026/27 MTN Premier League season in Eswatini is set to kick off this weekend after the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) and the Eswatini Referees Association (ERA) reached a tentative agreement. The meeting between the two parties, which lasted most of the day, eased uncertainty surrounding the league's opening. Although the referees' remuneration dispute remains unresolved, the PLE is expected to provide a formal response within seven days to the referees' demand for an increment in their match-day payments.
The dispute over referees' pay has been ongoing for over three years and had cast doubt over the smooth start of the new campaign. Some referees were considering boycotting the opening matches if the issue was not addressed. ERA Secretary Mbongeni Shongwe confirmed that the association had met with the PLE and described the discussions as fruitful. He said the referees' body would now await the PLE's response before deciding on its next course of action.
PLE Chief Executive Officer Petros 'Kungumusa' Vilakati offered a different account of the meeting, saying it was not specifically about the remuneration of match officials. Instead, Vilakati said the discussions were aimed at finding a way forward ahead of the start of the new season. The meeting comes just a day before the return of top-flight football, with eight matches scheduled for the opening weekend.
Today's action will see PPK Professionals host Red Rhinos FC at Killarney Sports Ground, while Celtics welcome Madlenya to Tambankulu Stadium. At Mhlume Stadium, Manzini Sea Birds FC will face Royal Leopard, while Ubombo Sugar entertain Mbabane Swallows at Mayaluka Stadium. The headline fixture will take place at Somhlolo National Stadium, where Mbabane Highlanders AM face Green Mamba.
The opening weekend's matches will also feature defending champions Nsingizini Hotspurs beginning their title defence against Moneni Pirates at Somhlolo National Stadium. Tomorrow's programme will see Ezulwini United host Amawele at KaLanga Technical Centre, while Rangers take on Young Buffaloes at King Sobhuza II Stadium.
While the opening whistle is now set to go ahead, the focus will remain on the PLE's response to the referees in the next seven days. The outcome is likely to determine whether the long-running remuneration dispute is finally brought to an end. The dispute has been a major concern for the league and its stakeholders.
The resolution to allow the league to start this weekend is a relief to fans and teams. The league's commencement will provide a boost to the country's football community, and all eyes will be on the PLE's response to the referees' demands in the coming days.
Key points
- The Eswatini Premier League season is set to start this weekend.
- The league's start was uncertain due to a dispute over referees' pay.
- The PLE has seven days to respond to the referees' demands.
