Swallows supporters demand clarity over Mokoena-backed club revival

The DubeBirds Supporters and Shareholders Steering Committee says it was not consulted over the launch of Moroka Swallows Sports Club by former sports broadcaster and businessman Walter Mokoena.

The committee, which began the “Bring Back The Birds” project two years ago, has called for urgent discussions with Mokoena to establish the new organisation’s plans and the role supporters will play in its future.

A statement was issued after a special meeting held on 19 October 2026, following the announcement of Moroka Swallows SC.

“The DubeBirds Supporters’ & Shareholders’ Steering Committee (SteerComm) wishes to address supporters, media houses, partners, stakeholders, and the broader football fraternity regarding the recent launch of Moroka Swallows Sports Club,” the organisation said.

The committee said it understood why the revival would be welcomed by supporters, but questioned why existing supporter structures had not been involved in the process.

“While we welcome any genuine effort aimed at restoring the legacy of Moroka Swallows, we believe that greater engagement and consultation with existing supporter structures could have contributed positively to this process,” the statement added.

Moroka Swallows’ supporters had united behind efforts to bring back the club after its “unfortunate demise”, according to the committee. It said that, alongside partners and supporters, it had spent the past two years speaking to potential investors and examining sustainable ways to re-establish the club through a supporter-centred model.

The committee said supporters were seeking answers about the new entity’s vision, ownership structure, governance arrangements and their position within the organisation.

“These are important matters that require clarity and constructive engagement,” it said.

Delegation to meet Mokoena

A five-person fact-finding delegation has been appointed to seek an urgent meeting with Mokoena and representatives of Moroka Swallows Sports Club.

It will comprise Thulani Mayekiso, Oliki Hlalele, Jabulani Msimango and Tinyiko Masango, with Mike Ntombela named as the alternate.

The committee said the delegation would seek to understand the new organisation’s objectives, determine how supporters would be included in the club’s future, identify possible areas of collaboration and address concerns raised by supporters and stakeholders.

It also sought to reassure Moroka Swallows fans that it remained committed to representing their interests, while recognising that individuals were entitled to form their own views and make their own decisions.

The committee said it would continue working with partners, advisers and prospective investors who had backed the revival effort over the past two years, and would update supporters on significant developments.

Although questions remain over the new club, the committee said it was willing to enter “constructive, transparent, and respectful dialogue” with any parties committed to restoring the legacy and future of Moroka Swallows.