South Africa backs Eswatini president's role in ASA overhaul
Eswatini Athletics president Zakhele Dlamini appointed independent observer for Athletics South Africa's governance reforms.
South Africa's Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has fully endorsed a roadmap to reform Athletics South Africa (ASA), appointing Eswatini's Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini as an independent observer. Minister McKenzie confirmed his support in a letter dated October 19, 2026, to World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon, welcoming the joint correspondence that appointed Dlamini. Restoring sound governance at ASA is a priority for the South African government, McKenzie stated, noting that ASA's issues are structural, not personal.
McKenzie pledged full cooperation with Dlamini, including making senior officials available, and expects ASA's progress to be reflected in its reporting to the department. The minister also supports the findings of ASA's independent disciplinary panel, which found ASA President James Moloi guilty of misusing funds and recommended his removal. The department will facilitate engagement with provincial sports authorities and work with the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee to ensure system-wide support.
The minister's overriding concern is for South African athletes, who should not suffer from administrative failures. He expressed a clear preference for reform over sanctions and pledged to help ASA meet its obligations within a six-month period. Dlamini's mandate as independent observer will continue until a new ASA constitution is ratified and fresh elections are held under the revised framework.
Why it mattersEswatini's Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini has been appointed as an independent observer to oversee governance reforms within Athletics South Africa.