Netball South Africa in turmoil: Years of progress threatened
Former Netball South Africa leaders have spoken out about a long-brewing storm threatening to derail the future of the sport.
The crisis engulfing Netball South Africa (NSA) has been years in the making, former leaders and officials told The Witness, warning that the turmoil threatens the future of the sport.
Several former officials said the developments at NSA headquarters are disturbing but ‘not surprising’, following the suspension of NSA president Cecilia Molokwane by World Netball amid allegations of misconduct and mismanagement.
Molokwane, who has led NSA since 2017, was officially suspended by World Netball on April 21.
The suspension follows allegations made by former associates, accusing her of racism and interference in player selection processes.
Charmaine Singh, a veteran administrator and former NSA deputy president, said the situation is heartbreaking.
“I can’t believe what is happening there. It is so sad and I’m heartbroken. I mean, to form the current democratic structures was not easy at all.
“We spent long hours and days pulling everybody together for unity, but look at this now,” said Singh.
She added that the current leadership under Molokwane had been disappointing.
“I may be looking from afar or retired, but what is coming out from there is not good at all and does not sound nice for the future of netball. I am also disappointed with the current president,” Singh said.
NSA vice-president Mami Diale declined to comment on the matter.
Former NSA president Mimi Mthethwa also expressed dissatisfaction over the developments, saying they undermined years of progress.
“It started raising eyebrows when I heard that NSA hosted the Netball World Cup but there was no report about the event for two years,” said Mthethwa.
“Remember, NSA was given R90m to host the event by the government and yet, after the world cup, there was no report for two years.
“I am furious, shattered and destroyed because I see my hard work going down the drain.”
When contacted by The Witness yesterday, Molokwane responded: “Can I enjoy my day without netball please.”
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