The South African Football Players Union [SAFPU] have broken their silence on the dismissal of 22 Moroka Swallows players due to disciplinary reasons.
On Tuesday, SAFPU held a press conference at their offices in Johannesburg. This was to provide clarity on the measures they’re willing to take to address the Swallows players’ problems.
Following a December 2023 player strike, triggered by salary disputes, Moroka Swallows dismissed 22 players. Their legal representation varies: SAFPU supports 22 players, while separate legal teams represent the remaining individuals.”
To add, Swallows ended up failing to honour their last two DStv Premiership matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows FC respectively. They were found guilty by the PSL Disciplinary Committee and were fined R1 million most recently, as a result forfeited six points.
Recently, reports also emerged that more players are set ace the Moroka Swallows disciplinary committee.
SAFPU’S STATEMENT ON MOROKA SWALLOWS PLAYERS THAT WERE DISMISSED
The union revealed that they are against the club’s disciplinary measures. Therefore, they will take the matter to the next level and try to solve it.
“SAFPU strongly rejects the recommendations put forth by the chairperson of the Moroka Swallows Internal Disciplinary hearing. It unjustly calls for the dismissal of the 22 players by the club,” reads the union’s statement.
“In the face of such egregious recommendations, SAFPU is unwavering in it’s commitment to justice. Should the club proceed with such unjust measures, we will not hesitate to escalate the matter to the Dispute Resolution Chamber and any other relevant Tribunal.
“SAFPU is of the view that the action by the leadership of Moroka Swallows also undermines the collective effort of the other clubs to uphold and maintain the integrity and legitimacy of the league.”
The unions further revealed that they will make sure the Dube Birds play heavily. This is for mistreating their players as they want to ensure that there is fairness.
“Our objective is clear: to ensure that the team faces the consequences. They should pay a heavy price for any injustice and harm inflicted upon the players. We stand resolute in our pursuit of fairness. We’re ready to take every necessary step to protect the rights and well-being of the players who have been unfairly targeted by these unwarranted recommendations.
“We also believe that the league has the responsibility to put measures in place. This will ensure that not only do they respect the validity of the contracts on the players. But also ensure the provision of financial fair play – which currently doesn’t form part of the handbook.”
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