HARARE- At least eight candidates have thrown their hats into the ring for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency, with nominations set to close this Wednesday. The much-anticipated elections will take place on January 25, marking a critical juncture for Zimbabwean football administration. However, the absence of Prophet Magaya, who was previously rumored to be interested in the ZIFA top job, has cast a pall of uncertainty over the proceedings.
Magaya, the founder and leader of the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, was previously rumored to be considering a bid for the ZIFA presidency. However, the list of contenders only includes Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairperson Farai Jere, Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) chairperson Martin Kweza, former ZIFA board member (finance) Philemon Machana, and Harare businessman Nqobile Magwizi. Joining them are outspoken legislator Temba Mliswa, football technocrat Marshal Gore, businessman Gilbert Muponda, and former PSL chairman Twine Phiri.
The candidates must pass a rigorous eligibility test before making it to the final shortlist, to be announced on December 23. The absence of Prophet Magaya, whose vast network of followers and deep pockets could have significantly influenced the electoral outcome, has left many in the football community puzzled.
Farai Jere, a prominent figure in Zimbabwean football and CAPS United majority shareholder, confirmed his candidacy while officiating at the Soccer Stars banquet in Harare last Friday. He announced he would step down from his PSL role to meet ZIFA statutes, which bar holders of other leadership positions from contesting.
“This could be the last time I officiate as the PSL chairman. I am entering the race for the ZIFA presidency. I love football and I am willing to lead it,” said Jere. He lauded the PSL’s progress under his tenure and expressed confidence in the league’s future.
Jere faces a diverse field of competitors, blending administrative expertise, football passion, and business acumen. Martin Kweza stands out for his stellar leadership in the NRSL, which has become a benchmark for Division One leagues in Zimbabwe. His initiatives, including enhanced rewards for soccer stars, have earned him widespread admiration.
Philemon Machana brings institutional knowledge to the race, having previously served on the ZIFA board. Cleared of court cases that might have barred his candidacy, Machana remains a formidable contender.
The ZIFA elections coincide with the conclusion of the ZIFA Normalisation Committee’s (NC) mandate. Appointed in June last year following Zimbabwe’s readmission to international football, the NC has been instrumental in stabilizing local football. Their notable achievements include guiding the Warriors to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and overseeing critical constitutional reforms.
The upcoming elections are expected to set the tone for the future of Zimbabwean football. With a mix of technocrats, seasoned administrators, and passionate newcomers in the running, the ZIFA presidency is shaping up to be a tightly contested battle.
The football fraternity awaits the final shortlist with bated breath as the candidates gear up to present their visions for transforming the sport in Zimbabwe.
