Chronicle Editor
Innocent Kurira
ASPIRING Zimbabwe Football Association president, Temba Mliswa on Wednesday brought his campaign to Bulawayo.
Despite insisting that he will withdraw from the race if soccer legend Peter Ndlovu stands for the post, Mliswa still came to Bulawayo to acquaint himself with voters.
Mliswa, on Wednesday met with some Southern Region councillors to announce his candidature for the top post in Zimbabwe football.
He said if Ndlovu stays in the race, he would be available to serve football in some other capacity.
“The whole idea of the meeting was to interact with football leaders, as you can’t lead without understanding those you’re serving. You must know who the leaders are, what they stand for, and interact with them. One cannot lead without knowing who they are leading. It was an awesome interaction. There are people willing to change football for the better, and leaders who want to accept what’s good for the sport,” said Mliswa after the meeting.
However, Mliswa has made it clear that if Ndlovu decides to run, he will step aside and offer his support.
Ndlovu, a Zimbabwe football legend and Mamelodi Sundowns star, is seen as a fan favourite to bring success to Zimbabwean football.
“I don’t have to be president; I can serve in any capacity.
As we move towards the elections, people must vote wisely, considering the sport’s future. I’m not bringing money, but expertise. I believe I have ideas to take football where it should be. If Peter Ndlovu runs, I won’t; I’ll discuss with him where I can fit in. It’s about complementing each other; I’ll bring change in any role I serve.”
With his extensive experience in sports administration, including stints with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union and Zimbabwe Rugby Union, Mliswa believes he has the expertise to take Zimbabwean football to new heights.
Mliswa’s vision for Zifa is built on his past successes, having coached rugby at the prestigious Eaton School, attended by Prince William and Harry, and leading the Zimbabwe national soccer team to victory in the Cosafa Cup in 2003.
He also acted as fitness coach for Caps United Football Club, helping them win the BP Cup. The Zifa presidency election is heating up, with other contenders believed to be Farai Jere, Walter Magaya, Twine Phiri, Philemon Machana, George Mawere, Marshal Gore and Richard Wangu Mazodze.
Online Reporter