Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube
Zimpapers Sports Hub
NGEZI Platinum Stars are not being dissolved despite numerous challenges, including key staff exodus at the domestic Premiership club, a club official has said.
The 2023 Castle Lager Premiership champions are battling to pay off former coach Bongani Mafu after he was awarded US$196,750 for unfair dismissal.
The deadline for payment was November 6 and FIFA have been asked to intervene and enforce sanctions.
The 2023 Castle Lager PSL champions also face another huge bill from Benjani Mwaruwari whose case is similar to Mafu.
Speculation has been rife that Benjani and Mafu might not get a cent from the US$800,000 awarded to them by a tribunal, as Ngezi are being dissolved.
Mafu’s lawyer Ndaba Nyathi refused to comment.
“I’m not at liberty to discuss hypotheticals or enforcement tactics at this stage, coach Mafu’s priority is resolution, not speculation.”
Benjani and Mafu also declined to comment.
Ngezi have also been hit by an exodus of leading personnel, including coach Takesure Chiragwi, and team manager Tinashe Nengomasha.
The two have joined CAPS United.
Some top players have also left Ngezi Platinum Stars.
Club Liaison Officer Roberta Katunga said Ngezi were not being dissolved.
“There is no consideration or discussion regarding the dissolution of NPS FC,” she said.
“Player and staff movements occur in every football season, and while the Club is currently navigating internal transitions, operations are continuing and preparations for the next season and obligations remain on track.”
Katunga added:
“Ngezi Platinum Stars FC remains committed to resolving its internal matters professionally and in accordance with applicable football governance standards.
“Ngezi Platinum Stars Football Club wishes to clarify that the Club is an independently governed entity with its own board and operational structures.
“Zimplats is not involved in the Club’s management or decision making processes and therefore has no role in football related contractual, governance or compliance matters.
“All strategic decisions concerning the Club’s future rest with its Board, which is focused on ensuring the Club meets its obligations and continues its operations.”
