Eswatini lottery founder alleges intimidation in ownership dispute
Sandlane Zwane has alleged that he and members of his family have faced intimidation amid an ongoing dispute over the company’s ownership structure
Eswatini.- Police records filed at Matsapha Police Station on May 22 show that Sandlane Zwane, the founder of the Eswatini Lottery, lodged a stalking complaint after a woman allegedly followed him and his family members, raising concerns for the well-being of his wife and daughter.
Zwane said attempts were made to influence the transfer of shares in Eswatini Lottery, including approaches to his daughter to sign company documents. He also alleged that documents later presented to a financial institution contained questionable signatures, prompting compliance checks under Know Your Customer procedures.
According to the Times of Eswatini, he further claimed that efforts were made to file documents with the Registrar of Companies to alter ownership records. He alleges that a legal practitioner based in Mbabane played a role in attempts to gain control of the company. However, no charges have been announced by authorities, and the allegations remain untested in court.
Zwane said his long-term vision for Eswatini Lottery includes a significant government shareholding, alongside potential participation by South Africa’s Sizekhaya Holdings following earlier engagements. He noted that the remaining shares would be held through a family trust structure.
Established in 2025, Eswatini Lottery launched with an initial jackpot of E3m (€150,000) and has since expanded into South Africa, Namibia and Lesotho.
The allegations remain under investigation, with no criminal wrongdoing confirmed by authorities. All individuals involved are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.
