Langa Mabena
Sports Reporter
Prophet Walter Magaya, a prominent religious leader and businessman, is expected to announce his candidacy for the presidency of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA).
Magaya, founder of Prophetic Healing Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, according to sources, is set to unveil his plans in the near future but has already pledged to transform Zimbabwean football and take it to “unprecedented heights.”
However, Magaya’s candidacy, like everybody else, is contingent upon passing the FIFA Integrity Test, a rigorous vetting process designed to ensure compliance with FIFA’s ethics code.
“The FIFA Integrity Test which is enshrined in Article 27 is a crucial step in the electoral process,” a Fifa official said.
Given his passion for football, Magaya’s campaign promises are expected to include investing in grassroots football development, improving football infrastructure, enhancing transparency and accountability, and attracting international investment.
However, his football club, Yadah FC, was recently sanctioned by FIFA over unpaid wages to three Brazilian players.
“Football leadership requires more than just resources and passion,” said a local football analyst who asked not to be named.
Other candidates who have been said to be interested include UK based Marshall Gore, whom many have linked to the “UK Brigade” of foreign based players who were born overseas and are eager to play for Zimbabwe.
As the election season approaches, many names will come up, but Magaya has been under spotlight with many former players openly backing him for the top post.
Online Reporter