admin
Online Reporter
Walter Magaya’s bid to become the next Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president, like other hopefuls, can only succeed if he passes the integrity test.
Any candidate, according to Fifa rules, with a checkered past, financial woes, criminal conviction, and fraud allegations, can not hold football office as outlined in Article 27.
FIFA’s integrity initiative prioritises protecting football matches and competitions from manipulation, emphasising transparency and accountability. The organisation’s integrity department works closely with member associations and confederations to
prevent match-fixing and promote fair play.
FIFA’s regulations emphasise the importance of candidates’ integrity, reputation, and compliance with ethical standards.
Former players, Willard Katsande and Tapiwa Kapini’s calls to remove another clause requiring O-levels for ZIFA presidency eligibility has raised eyebrows. It has been speculated that this move is aimed at bolstering some candidates.
The O-level requirement has been a contentious issue, with some arguing it is unnecessary for football leadership roles. However, others see it as essential for ensuring candidates have a basic level of education.
The Lincoln Mutasa-led Normalisation Committee’s term expires in January 2025, paving the way for the elections to vote for the new ZIFA board.
Ahead of the annual general meeting slated for October 18 in Harare, the Mutasa-led administration sent out a draft constitution which members will go through and analyse ahead of the crucial indaba.
As per procedure, the ZIFA congress will then adopt the proposed constitution or amend it. There are certain clauses on the daft constitution which have generated debate among football stakeholders, chief among them Article 38.7 which reads: “The president and the two vice presidents of the Executive Committee shall have passed a minimum of five O-Level subjects or any equivalent educational level.”
The United Kingdom-based duo of FIFA Football agent Ellen Chiwenga and Marshall Gore, ZIFA Northern Region chairman Martin Kweza, Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) founder and leader
Prophet Magaya, former Warriors and CAPS United winger Alois Bunjira, FC Wangu Mazodze owner Richard Mazodze, veteran broadcaster Charles Mabika and former CAPS United president Twine Phiri, are some of the individuals believed to be interested in contesting for the ZIFA presidency. However, Magaya has been the first to throw his hat into the ring.
Online Reporter