Royal AM boss Shauwn 'Mamkhize' Mkhize Royal AM boss Shauwn 'Mamkhize' Mkhize has apologised to her players over the non-payment of their salaries during the Festive Season. Photo: Ayanda Ndamane/Independent Media
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/Independent Media
Royal AM president and prominent Durban businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize has apologised to her players after they were not paid their salaries over the Festive Season.
The non-payment resulted in the postponement of their Betway Premiership game against Chippa United in Gqeberha, leading to speculation that the club face an uncertain future as their financial troubles pile up.
Earlier reports had suggested the games was postponed due to players going on strike, however, this was not the case, according to the South African Football Players Union. According to union deputy president Tebogo Monyai, the players were advised to delay their return to training as the club looks for money to pay their December salaries.
On Wednesday, Mkhize, who reportedly owes the taxman R40 million, admitted that the club was now under the temporary curatorship of SARS as they look to settle the tax debt.
"The club's management team, led by our CEO and General Manager, has been working diligently with the curator to secure the necessary permissions to release funds for salary payments," Mkhize said in a statement.
"It has always been the ethos of Royal AM to prioritise the well-being of our personnel, and we remain dedicated to upholding that principle despite the current challenges," she continued.
"We appreciate the patience and support of our players, staff, and their families during this difficult time. Additionally, we thank our fans, sponsors, and broader stakeholders for their continued trust and loyalty.
"Royal AM is committed to preserving the integrity of the club and ensuring its long-term success. We remain optimistic that this situation will be resolved soon, and we will provide timely updates as developments unfold."
Last year, the club was ordered by world football governing body FIFA to pay Samir Nurkovic and Ricardo Nascimento R15 million and R600 000 respectively in unpaid salaries or risk being expelled from the PSL.
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