Bosso executive rejected CEO resignation . . .Substantive CEO appointment imminent

Innocent Kurira and Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub

ACTING Highlanders chief executive officer, Kindman Ndlovu was shown a vote of confidence by his colleagues in the executive who refused to accept his resignation.

On Thursday Ndlovu shocked the Bosso family when he stepped down.
In the ensuing days, his colleagues persuaded him to stay on until a chief executive officer is appointed. Interviews were held last Friday and an announcement is expected soon.

The decision was made during a crucial executive meeting held at the club’s offices on Monday evening, with the leadership citing the need for continuity and stability during a critical phase that includes the on-going transfer window and strategic planning.

Ndlovu, who assumed the acting CEO’s role in April, tendered his resignation last week following a breakdown in relations with club treasurer Nkani Khoza.

He accused Khoza of creating a toxic working environment and undermining his efforts to run the club effectively.
However, the executive has since moved to keep Ndlovu at the helm, at least temporarily, while the club finalises the process of appointing a new chief executive. Three candidates Nqobile Ngulube, Nkululeko Ndlovu and Nomvelo Mlotshwa were interviewed for the position.

Some of the candidates are believed to have been interviewed virtually.
“The club has already made a decision on who the next CEO will be. However, for purposes of a proper handover and to manage immediate priorities like player transfers, Kindman Ndlovu will remain in charge. Investigations will also be made into accusations made by Ndlovu so as to create a proper working relationship,” said a source close to the executive.

In a statement, Highlanders confirmed the reversal of Ndlovu’s resignation and emphasised its commitment to internal harmony.

“Following successful engagements, the executive member for technical and development, Mr Kindman Ndlovu, will remain the acting CEO until a substantive appointment is made,” the club said.

“Mr Ndlovu retracted his resignation letter and apologised to the executive member for finance, Nkani Khoza, and the club at large for any inconvenience caused by the public leak.”

The saga adds to a series of destabilising events at the club, including last week’s surprise dismissal of head coach Kelvin Kaindu. The timing of his sacking despite recent positive results and the promise of funding from businessman Wicknell Chivayo has drawn criticism from supporters and even members of the board.

Kaindu’s exit followed a 1-0 win against Manica Diamonds and a goalless draw in the Bulawayo derby against Chicken Inn. With the transfer window open and financial backing finally available, many believed the coach deserved a chance to reinforce the squad.

Adding to the club’s woes is growing concern over leaks of confidential information. Ndlovu’s resignation and its retraction became public almost instantly, with insiders blaming poor leadership discipline for the breach.
Meanwhile, the club will soon haul finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mnkandla before a disciplinary hearing for alleged fraud and insubordination.
Mnkandla returned to the club in the first week of February under a cloud with a majority of the executive in the dark despite a court ruling that she be reinstated.