South African-based company, Sebata Consolidated Holdings [Pty] Ltd has cut ties with Botswana’s Township Rollers.

The news sent shockwaves across South Africa’s neighboring country. The two parties agreed to a 5-year deal barely a year ago.

“This decision follows a comprehensive internal review and legal consultation, which identified significant compliance and governance issues regarding the nature of the club’s ownership and its regulatory obligations under the Botswana Football League (BFL) and Botswana Football Association (BFA) frameworks,” stated Sebata Consolidated Holdings [Pty] in a statement.

“Sebata entered into its agreement with Township Rollers with the clear intent of supporting one of Botswana’s most historic football institutions through strategic capital investment and operational support. Since inception, Sebata has contributed over BWP 22 million (R30 million) to the club’s operations in the interest of restoring long-term competitiveness and financial sustainability.”

Township Rollers was founded in 1961 and has won the Botswana Premier League 16 times, but things have not always been rosy, and the partnership with Sebata Consolidated Holdings, which is owned by Tendani Ernie Sebata, was aimed at stabilizing the club, especially its finances.

However, Sebata Consolidated Holdings, who deal with tailor-made enterprise management, water management, and ICT solutions, has decided to walk away, leaving the club in limbo.