Nomination papers deadline lapses as ZIFA election race heats up
The race for positions in the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) gained momentum as the deadline for submission of nomination papers lapsed on Wednesday.
With the process now in the hands of the electoral committee, aspiring candidates are expected to undergo a meticulous vetting process to determine their eligibility.
In just 10 days, on December 23, candidates vying for the top positions, including president, two deputy presidents, and six board members, will learn their fate.
Among these positions, one vice-presidency slot is reserved exclusively for women, emphasizing inclusivity within the football governing body.
Key requirements for candidates include being at least 40 years old for the presidency, holding a minimum of five Ordinary Level passes (including English), and having resided in Zimbabwe for the past two years.
Additionally, candidates must have a clean criminal record to qualify. The vetting outcomes will be announced on January 15, alongside the confirmation of delegates for the elective congress set for January 25.
The race for the presidency has attracted notable figures, including Yadah Stars owner Walter Magaya, businessman Nqobile Magwizi, former Premier Soccer League chairman Twine Phiri, and current ZIFA chairperson Farai Jere. Others include politician Temba Mliswa, ZIFA Northern Region chairperson Martin Kweza, former ZIFA board member Philemon Machana, and UK-based football administrator Marshal Gore.
The withdrawal of entrepreneur Gilbert Muponda, who endorsed Magwizi, has added intrigue to the contest. Questions around the eligibility of Magwizi and Mliswa have surfaced, particularly regarding their involvement in ZIFA structures over the past five years. Magwizi’s ties to Sakunda, sponsors of Dynamos and Highlanders, and his role at Banket United, have not gone unnoticed but may fall short of the required criteria.
Kennedy Ndebele, the Premier Soccer League chief executive officer, leads the race for the men’s vice-presidency. He faces stiff competition from former ZIFA vice-presidents Omega Sibanda and Gift Banda, as well as Highlanders board member Peter Dube and ex-club vice-chairperson Modern Ngwenya.
For the women’s vice-presidency slot, notable names include Nyasha Kadenge, former ZIFA board member Mavis Gumbo, Loveness Mukura, ex-Caps United administrator Joyce Kapota, Patience Mutumwa, and Winnet Muropa.
The contest for board memberships is equally competitive, with nearly 40 candidates vying for six positions. Prominent names include veteran administrator Francis Zimunya, Chicken Inn secretary Tavengwa Hara, former ZIFA spokesperson Xolisani Gwesela, and ex-Warriors manager Shariff Musa. Other candidates include Andrew Tapela, Alois Bunjira, football doctor Nicholas Munyonga, and team Gunners founder Cuthbert Chitima, among others.
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