Phiri, Machana capitulate. . .Drop Zifa polls appeal at the CAS

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TWINE Phiri and Philemon Machana have withdrawn their Zifa elections appeal at the Court of Arbitration of Sport in Switzerland.

The two had been challenging Nqobile Magwizi’s election citing influences of third parties and wanted the elections redone and Magwizi disqualified.

“We therefore announce, as we hereby do, that we are withdrawing the CAS appeal. Likewise, we urge all stakeholders to accept and appreciate our decision and in equal measure, to rally behind and support the new executive committee,’’ read a statement from Phiri and Machana.

The duo had previously alleged that the elections were not free and fair due to third-party influence from businessman Wicknell Chivayo and should be declared null and void. Hours before the polls, Chivayo promised Zifa councillors new cars and a US$10 million donation to the football body if they voted for Magwizi. Magwizi later won the election, garnering 66 votes. Magwizi recorded the highest victory in a Zifa presidential election.

None of the other contesting presidential candidates managed a double figure in their defeat, Machana managed six votes while Phiri had four. Marshall Gore another losing candidate managed only one vote while former football player Makwinji Soma-Phiri had zero.

Phiri and Machana emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration under the new executive committee. They urged all stakeholders to rally behind Magwizi’s leadership, highlighting the need for collective efforts to ensure the stability and progress of Zimbabwean football.

With the legal dispute now resolved, attention turns to Fifa’s role in guiding the new Zifa executive committee through induction and governance processes. Magwizi’s administration will be tasked with addressing the challenges facing Zimbabwean football and restoring public confidence in the sport’s leadership.

Magwizi officially replaced Felton Kamambo, whose tenure was cut short after his entire board was suspended by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).