ZIFA POLL: EX-FOOTBALL STARS ADD THEIR VOICES

Langton Nyakwenda

AMID the mudslinging that has characterised the run up to ZIFA elections, former footballers have added their voice, demanding that the next president should be able to restore Zimbabwe’s football pride.

Moses “Bambo” Chunga, ignited an interesting debate on social media when he poured his heart on his Facebook page.

“The incoming ZIFA president must be a person of integrity,” declared Chunga.

“They (football leaders) must be truthful and transparent in words and action.

“The ZIFA president has the whole footballing nation on their shoulders, the players, the coaches, the fans, administrators, the sponsors, CAF, FIFA, so all eyes will be on them.

“This means that every decision made will be scrutinised by every stakeholder.

“They must be great decision makers, doing so in openness and clarity.

Another legend, Raphael Phiri, said:

“I would love to have a president who understands how football is run, one who has enough administrative qualities and has also played football.

“One has to have a clear vision and direction for the football association

“Someone who inspires and motivates others to work towards a common goal.

“A person with integrity and is ethical builds trust and credibility.”

Former CAPS United defender Charles Manjera, expects a leader who will revive junior football development.

“We also have people with five O’ Levels but have nothing in terms of football in their heads.

“I am expecting someone who has a rich understanding of current football trends.

Nesbert Gwede, a highly rated dribbler during his days at Ziscosteel in the early 1990s, is worried about how the next ZIFA president will handle FIFA grants.

“We want a man who makes sure money from FIFA goes to where it is supposed to go,” says Gwede.

“I hear about Futsal and Beach soccer in Zimbabwe but you don’t get to see people play, but there is money that comes from FIFA for such.

“Maybe they play on Mars.

“Unfortunately, that is the situation we are in.

“We want a person who is honest and has a passion to uplift the game and not to line his or her pockets.

“But that is not to say a ZIFA president has to be rich, no.”