Netball SA elections to proceed despite leadership chaos

Netball SA elections to proceed despite leadership chaos

Despite the controversy surrounding suspended Netball South Africa (NSA) president Cecilia Molokwane, the federation’s elections to select a new board will proceed as scheduled on 25 October.

Molokwane, who was suspended by World Netball six months ago for alleged financial misconduct and staff harassment, broke her silence during a press conference on Thursday.

NSA is currently facing turbulent times following unsettling reports involving both its CEO, Modiegi Komane, and Molokwane.

Speaking to SABC Sport, NSA acting president Mame Diale confirmed that the elections will continue as planned, stressing that only the council has the authority to postpone or cancel them.

NSA released a statement on Friday confirming that Molokwane remains under suspension, despite her dramatic press conference in which she declared herself reinstated as president.

"As Netball South Africa, we follow the process and procedure. We have a constitution that is guiding us, so acting outside of the constitution is quite a challenge for us, but as of now, the elections will continue until we call a SGM as NSA."

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When asked if she would contest for the presidency, the soft-spoken Diale remained diplomatic, saying her fate lies in the hands of the council members.

She added that her focus is on ensuring stability within the federation and that the new leadership reflects the will of the members.

The future of NSA CEO Modiegi Komane remains uncertain, as her contract is due to expire at the end of the month.

Diale confirmed that the new board, to be elected next week, will decide whether Komane continues in her role.

Komane has recently been in the spotlight for negative publicity, including allegations of bullying—claims she has strongly denied—and reports suggesting she received a warning for misconduct.

"I think it was discussed at the March council, where we indicated that the CEO's contract will come to an end."

Diale maintained a composed stance, refusing to be drawn into the ongoing controversies involving the CEO.

She told SABC Sport that internal matters will be handled within the federation and not in public, emphasizing that her priority remains the players and the sport’s growth.