Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
The stage is set for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) executive committee elections, scheduled for the 25th of January next year, with three aspiring presidential election candidates, Martin Kweza, Philemon Machana and Prophet Walter Magaya facing an uncertain future after their candidature was challenged on a matter of law.
The Ethics Committee is currently reviewing the nominations, with a list of successful candidates expected to be announced on the 23rd of December.
Several high-profile candidates have thrown their names into the hat, including Northern Region chairperson Martin Kweza, PSL chairperson Farai Jere, and his predecessor Twine Phiri.
Businessman Nqobile Magwizi, former ZIFA executive committee member Philemon Machana, Prophet Walter Magaya, former Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari and former legislator Themba Msliwa, are also vying for the top spot.
It has, however, emerged that not all candidates are having a smooth ride with Prophet Magaya, Kweza, and Machana’s candidature being challenged on a matter of law.
Sports lawyer Allan Murimirwa gave an insight into the prevailing situation.
“There is nothing that precludes individuals from bringing to the attention of the chairman of the Ethics Committee, allegations of violations or attempted violations of the Ethics Code. However, it is the duty of the Ethics Committee to determine if individuals can stand for office after careful evaluation based on the ZIFA statutes,” he explained.
With various individuals raising allegations and concerns over pending court cases, Murimirwa said the Ethics Committee will carefully evaluate the evidence and make a judgment based on the ZIFA statutes.
“A charge of a criminal nature does not mean one is convicted, one is innocent until proven guilty and we must let the courts do their job. However, in terms of the ZIFA statutes, they are allowed to assess evidence that is before them, starting with the evidence before them and any proof that is tendered before them. The committee weighs the evidence and makes a judgement. It must be noted that in terms of the constitution, the Ethics Committee itself is a judiciary body and their decisions are binding.”
The ZIFA Electoral Code emphasises the importance of the Ethics Committee in ensuring the eligibility, independence, and integrity of candidates.
With the elections just around the corner, all eyes are on the Ethics Committee’s decision, which will pave the way for a new era in Zimbabwean football.
