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Online Reporter
Nqobile Magwizi, a candidate for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency, has issued a rebuttal after he found himself at the centre of a firestorm.
An alleged objection was raised with the Zifa Ethics and Integrity Committee which is guided by the Electoral Committee by a T Muzanenhamo to Magwizi’s candidature for Zifa president at next year’s elections.
In his letter, Muzanenhamo’s objections included internationl repercussions, banking and financial challenges as well as ethical and integrity concerns based on Magwizi’s placement on illegal sanctions by the US government.
In his rebuttal statement, Magwizi has vehemently denied the claims, labeling them as a malicious smear campaign designed to discredit him ahead of the January elections.
“These allegations are nothing but a fabrication, a desperate attempt to tarnish my reputation and undermine my candidacy,” he said in a statement.
Questions will be raised about the motivations behind the allegations, with many speculating that they are a desperate attempt to derail Magwizi’s campaign.
The upcoming ZIFA elections have turned nasty, with several candidates facing attempts to get them barred from standing.
The electoral committee has been inundated with complaints and counter-complaints, as rival factions jockey for position.
Other candidates namely Walter Magaya, Twine Phiri, Farai Jere, Temba Mliswa, Philemon Machana and Martin Kweza have all fallen foul to mud slinging through objections being raised about their candidature, each citing various reasons including previous convictions in court and allegations of fraud among others.
In his rebuttal, Magwizi wrote:
“Esteemed Committee Members.
I have been made aware of information circulating on social media alleging that an objection has been raised against my candidacy for ZIFA president. While I have not been able to verify the authenticity of this objection or its source, I feel it is important to address the matter directly with the Committee.
The information claims that I am on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List maintained by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. While it is true that my name was once included on this list, I would like to confirm that I was officially removed from the SDN List as per the Federal Register/Vol. 89, No. 46, dated Thursday, March 7, 2024.
I have attached a copy of the relevant Federal Register for your reference. This document confirms my removal and should address any concerns regarding my eligibility or integrity. I trust the Committee will find this clarification helpful, and I remain committed to providing any further information that may be required. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you need additional documentation or clarification.”
Online Reporter