Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube,Zimpapers Sports Hub
IT wasn’t just the 1-0 scoreline that got people talking on Sunday at Barbourfields, it was the banner.
“We Demand Change, New Executive, New Board Members, No To Misuse of Bosso Funds,” it read, lifted high by the Bosso Ultras. But it was the raw isiNdebele call at the bottom that hit hardest:
“Sikhathele Ngani Masela, Asifuni Bumbulu.”
That one line summed up the frustration of thousands. They’re tired, of shady deals, slow disciplinary processes while watching their beloved Bosso drift deeper into the shadows of its former glory.
Highlanders board chairman Luke Mnkandla said he’d seen the protest and wasn’t surprised.
“I saw those placards. As for the vote of no confidence, the bona fide members will decide,” he said.
“I know that the leadership is doing its best for Highlanders.”
But for fans on the terraces, that’s no longer enough.
The tension stems from several unresolved issues, including the case of suspended finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mnkandla, who allegedly defrauded the club in 2023. That hearing has been in limbo for over 18 months because of missing charge sheets.
This followed the departure of CEO Brian Moyo under allegations tied to shady transfer dealings involving Bulawayo Chiefs players. Documents say Bosso paid US$23 000 for the duo but Chiefs only received US$18 000. Even Chiefs’ former administrator Andrew Mandigora admitted that there was an underhand dealing and has since been sentenced for his part in which he pocketed US$3 000.
Moyo denies the charges.
Now there are reports that confidential club documents have been leaked to outsiders.
It’s been a rocky 15 years for Highlanders. Fans blame a mix of financial mismanagement and internal politics. The once unifying Bosso brand has become a divided house, where election seasons are more intense than match days.
With the club sitting in eighth place, some fans feel that if the off-field mess isn’t cleaned up soon, Bosso’s on field performances will only get worse.
