Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS chairman Kenneth Mhlophe has announced that he will not seek re-election at the end of his term in January.
Mhlophe says the time has come for “new blood” to take the club forward.
In an emotional reflection on his tenure, Mhlophe said he believes he has “run his race” and wants to leave the club in the hands of a new leadership team capable of building on the work that has been done.
His announcement comes as Highlanders prepare for Sunday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League showdown against Simba Bhora at Barbourfields Stadium, a match expected to attract a huge crowd as Bosso look to continue their push up the table.
Mhlophe admitted the demands of leading one of Zimbabwe’s biggest football clubs had taken a heavy toll on him personally.
“I think it is time for new blood. By the end of my term in December I will be stepping aside. I have run my race and I believe others should now take the club forward,” said Mhlophe.
“It has not been easy. The responsibility has taken a toll on me, even on a personal level. Leading Highlanders is a huge responsibility and it demands a lot.”
He said one of the biggest challenges during his tenure has been securing sponsorship in a difficult economic environment.
“It has been a very difficult season. We have worked tirelessly trying to secure sponsorship and financial stability for the club. People don’t always see the work that goes on behind the scenes, but we have done everything possible for Highlanders.”
Despite the challenges, Mhlophe said he remains optimistic about the future of Bosso and believes the club is moving in the right direction.
His announcement is likely to spark debate among Highlanders members ahead of elections later this year, with attention expected to shift towards who will succeed him at the helm of the country’s oldest football club.
For now, however, Mhlophe’s focus remains on supporting the team as they prepare for another crucial league assignment against Simba Bhora.
The Bulawayo giants have endured mixed fortunes against the Shamva-based side since their promotion to the top flight, with Bosso managing just one victory in seven previous league meetings, while Simba Bhora have won three and the other three matches ended in draws.
A positive result on Sunday would not only improve Highlanders’ position on the league table but also provide a fitting boost for a club whose chairman says he wants to leave knowing he gave everything he had in service of Bosso.
