dyton mupawaenda
Tadious Manyepo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
CANDIDATES vying for posts in the incoming ZIFA executive have unanimously given thumBs up to the ZIFA Normalisation Committee for providing an even democratic ground for the elections.
The ZIFA NC have erected the stage for the plebiscite set for January 25 next year.
Focus has now shifted to the elections where 50 candidates are eyeing different portfolios in the new substantive committee, including 10 candidates aiming for the presidential seat.
It’s a record number of entrants since 1980 and candidates have hailed the ZIFA NC for creating the right environment for independent participation. Colonel Edward Mutukwa, who is aiming to win one of the six available board member slots said previously it was difficult for aspiring ZIFA executive post holders to file their nominations.
“If there is something positive that has been done by the ZIFA NC, they should get a lot of credit for ushering in a democratic phase that has seen a lot of candidates throwing their names into the hat for different positions.
“In the past, office holders, due to their obvious interest, would be conflicted and they would do everything to block potential threats from running for the posts.
“That really put a lot of good administrators off and we saw the game’s standards in the country deteriorating at a devastating pace.
“We should give the ZIFA NC a pat on the back because they have created an even playing field where anyone can give it a go.”
Tafadzwa Benza, whose passion for football development is well-documented, said expressed satisfaction with which the whole process is unfolding.
“The playing field is very good and I think the authorities have done some fine work to encourage everyone to participate and have a chance to play a role in the administration of the game in the country,” said Benza.
“Everything has been done in a professional manner and you have that sense of comfort and trust in the process, well-done to the ZIFA NC and every authority involved in this.”
Sweeny Mushonga, who has a strong chance of nailing his place in the board said the ZIFA NC have performed well and critically laid a good ground for the elections.
“The systems which have been put in place are very good and we should hail these authorities for working flat-out to ensure the right things are done. We are really grateful,” he said.
ZIFA presidential aspirants Martin Kweza, Philemon Machana and Walter Magaya have also all hailed the whole process.
The three will face-off against seven others including Temba Mliswa, Makwinji Soma-Phiri, Twine Phiri ,Benjani Mwaruwari, Marshal Gore and Nqobile Magwizi.
Online Reporter