Netball South Africa's quadrennial elections on 25 October 2025 are clouded by the suspension of president Cecilia Molokwane by World Netball. The global body initiated disciplinary proceedings in April 2025, with a hearing ongoing that may not conclude until early 2026. This has sparked debates on whether the vote should proceed without her involvement.
Netball South Africa (NSA) is grappling with a governance crisis as it prepares for its elections on 25 October 2025. President Cecilia Molokwane was suspended by World Netball in April 2025, though the global governing body has not disclosed the specific allegations. World Netball confirmed the matter passed a preliminary hearing and is now before an independent arbitration service for a disciplinary process. 'The findings of the disciplinary investigation have been passed on to an independent arbitration service, who are now in the process of convening a disciplinary hearing,' the organization stated, adding that no further comments would be made to preserve confidentiality.
The suspension raises questions about the elections' integrity, especially since Molokwane intended to seek a third four-year term. NSA's constitution allows the incumbent to run without nomination, but her status could exclude her. Acting president Mami Diale, Eastern Cape Netball president Nompumelelo Javu, and NSA director of coaching Annelie Lucas are the confirmed candidates. Molokwane's supporters argue against proceeding without her, citing the lack of guilt finding, but they lack the numbers for a challenge.
On 16 October 2025, Molokwane held a press conference in Polokwane, declaring she had resumed duties. 'I’m back in office. I’m a South African and I go by the South African rules and regulations,' she said, alleging the suspension aimed to block her NSA re-election and a World Netball vice-presidency bid in July 2025. NSA quickly distanced itself, with Diale stating, 'To our knowledge, Cecilia Molokwane remains suspended under the directives of World Netball.' A special general meeting on 24 October will decide on postponement. NSA emphasized, 'Preparation is proceeding as per the NSA constitution,' while declining comment on legal impacts, noting netball must come first.
Past allegations against Molokwane include team selection interference, financial mismanagement, and opposition culling, which she denies. Former vice-president Christine du Preez remarked, 'Cecilia is a very vibrant person... If you’re not [in her camp], you get to see the other side.' The saga underscores broader governance concerns for South African netball.