Nico could be sold
Imi Mokgethi | Wednesday November 9, 2016 15:37
Club chairperson, Mothusi Taolo recently told a consultative meeting with the team’s supporters that Nico face serious financial challenges, which might affect their activities in the ongoing BTC Premiership league.
“We are currently exploring all possible options to save the team and we have found it fit to engage you as key stakeholders to get suggestions on what you feel would be the best way to address the situation that has befell us,” he said.
Some supporters immediately suggested the team should be leased while others said it should be sold.
On the other hand, others suggested that the management should negotiate with interested parties for a partnership so that they continue being part of the team.
“In whatever suggestion we settle for let us make sure that we keep the name of our team though it will prove difficult when someone buys the club as they will have full control to take any decision they feel is best for them,” noted one supporter.
Taolo promised that management would take all suggestions into consideration. He added that the management would thereafter meet to review all the suggestions and gather the necessary information in order to make an informed final decision about the team’s fate.
He said they will also approach political leaders as well as other key stakeholders to get information on the planned economic restoration activities in the copper/nickel town, highlighting that without any economic activity, people are bound to leave.
“As we ponder the way forward we should take into consideration the fact that some key runners of the team being the management, players and supporters will be among those leaving and we will have to come up with suggestions that address the matter,” Taolo said.
He further pointed out that any economic diversification initiatives that are going to be implemented will take some time to start yielding results, noting that during that time the team will need finances to continue running.
Taolo reassured members that by next week Thursday management will give them feedback regarding the chosen suggestion, adding that they will be given an opportunity to express their views on the choice.
He stated that the suggestion bank will remain open until yesterday to allow those who did not make it to the meeting to submit their thoughts, emphasising the need for thorough consultation before reaching a conclusion.
“We really need to give this matter deep thought and thorough consultation before taking any decision to avoid legal wars since this is a society club. We therefore will continue working with all critical stakeholders until the last stage,” he said.