Despite Africa Netball having 14 members, the just-concluded elections saw the reinstatement of the previous board, with only seven members participating as voting members. Notably, Botswana (Malebo Raditladi-Nkgakile), South Africa (Cecilia Molokwane), Namibia (Rebekka Goagoses), Kenya (Immaculate Kabutha), and Zambia (Martha Sichone) were the sole attendees at the AGM and exercised their votes.
A source told MmegiSport that the five countries voted in unison, each choosing other contenders. Consequently, all candidates received 5/7 votes, highlighting a curious dynamic in the electoral process. Meanwhile, the president of Zimbabwe Netball, Leticia Chipandu, withdrew from the presidential race, adding intrigue to the unfolding events.
“Where were the other countries, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Ghana and Lesotho? They were not allowed into the AGM, a convenient technical lockout. As the board conveniently refused to organise an online platform to accommodate the members that could not travel to the much controversial Africa Netball Cup, alongside the AGM,” a source said.
The source argued that the Africa Netball Cup was controversial because game preparations were left to the very last minute after being tossed around like a hot potato. “Only because the elective AGM was taking place at the same time, I am told, did the board members fight for an extended term and wanted to ensure that the games did not take place,” the source further said. The absence of an online platform for those unable to attend in person was cited as a convenient technical lockout, leaving members unable to participate.
Since 2020, all Africa Netball AGMs and voting have occurred online, but the board now argued against its use, citing a lack of constitutional provision. Critics alleged that the current board, comprised of re-elected members, formed a quorum of seven members, colluding to exchange votes and secure their positions.
Despite the accusations, Africa Netball President Cecilia Molokwane, who retained her position, dismissed the claims. Speaking to Mmegi Sport, she emphasised that the AGM proceeded smoothly, attributing the absence of certain member countries to financial challenges. She said the only change noted in the new board was the appointment of Kabutha from Kenya as the new secretary-general. “We resolved that we would work towards finding sponsors for AN. We would try and have an AN league.
The affiliation money should be looked at as it is way too small. Regional structures should all be established as we have only two, Region 5 and 4. Africa Youth World Cup qualifiers will be hosted in South Africa,” Molokwane outlined. In response to allegations against her board, Molokwane maintained that they formed "a quorum based on countries in good standing with Africa Netball, those having paid their subscription fees". The board comprises Molokwane (president), Raditladi-Nkgakile (vice president-marketing), Goagoses (vice president-development), Sichone (treasurer), and Kabutha (secretary-general).
