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Former Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) executives Felton Kamambo, Philemon Machana, Stanley Chapeta, Joseph Mamutse, and Brighton Malandule have been acquitted of fraud allegations.
Presiding magistrate Taurai Manuwere found them not guilty of misrepresenting themselves as ZIFA officials and writing suspension letters while they were under suspension by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
The prosecution’s case collapsed due to a lack of incriminating evidence, and key witnesses Sébastien Garikai and Xolisani Gwesela’s testimonies actually cleared the suspects.
The five, represented by lawyer Admire Rubaya of Rubaya and Chatambudza Legal Practitioners, maintained their innocence and denied any criminal liability.
Gwesela, the State’s second witness, expressed surprise that the case was still progressing after the SRC withdrew as a complainant.
Gwesela conceded that the suspension of the five was null and void as FIFA continued to recognize them as the legitimate executive and suspended the country from all football activities.
He said he couldn’t prove the email he received was from the accused, suggesting the possibility of forgery in cyberspace.
Garikai, a senior member from the SRC, admitted there was no verification to prove the letters came from the five accused.
He also stated that the suspension letter did not outline specific conditions for what the accused were not supposed to do.
Despite the SRC’s suspension of the ex-ZIFA board members, FIFA dismissed their actions and banned the nation from all international football activities.
Garikai conceded that the SRC did not ascertain whether the five actually wrote, signed, and sent the letters but based their report on complaints from Gwesela and others.
Gwesela denied causing the reporting of the matter to the police, saying he only cooperated with the SRC as they were his employers.
He added that he had nothing against the five and had worked well with them.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Five former ZIFA bosses in Zimbabwe were cleared of fraud charges. They were accused of pretending to be ZIFA officials and writing suspension letters when they weren't supposed to. The case fell apart because there wasn't enough evidence, and even key witnesses supported the suspects. FIFA still recognizes them as the legitimate leaders, despite the suspension by the SRC. The case was based on complaints but couldn't be proven. In the end, the ex-bosses were found not guilty.

Kamambo, Four Other Former ZIFA Bosses Found Not Guilty Of Fraud

A Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) official made significant concessions that could impact the fraud case against five former ZIFA board members: Felton Kamambo, Philemon Machana, Stanley Chapeta, Joseph Mamutse, and Brighton Malandule, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/src-official-exonerates-ousted-zifa-board-members-facing-fraud/">ZimLive</a>.
The SRC accused the five of using a ZIFA letterhead to write misleading letters while on suspension.
However, midway through the trial, the SRC opted out and informed the Prosecutor-General that they no longer considered themselves complainants.
Despite this, the state continued the prosecution, leading the accused to seek a referral to the Constitutional Court, arguing the state should not proceed without a complainant.
Sebastian Garikai, former acting director-general of the SRC, testified that using the ZIFA letterhead violated the suspension terms, which barred the accused from acting as ZIFA officials.
Garikai alleged that Mamutse authored the letters on behalf of the ZIFA board, making all involved liable.
Prosecutor Oscar Madhume questioned how the others were linked if Mamutse signed the letters, to which Garikai responded that the letters were written on behalf of the ZIFA board.
Garikai acknowledged that the suspension letter did not specify prohibitions, including the use of the ZIFA letterhead.
The prosecutor asked if the suspension conditions were communicated directly to the accused. Garikai replied that the suspension letter did not outline specific conditions.
Garikai admitted that the SRC did not verify whether the five accused wrote, signed, and sent the letters and that the police report was based on accounts from Xolisani Gwesela and other ZIFA officers.
Lawyer Admire Rubaya challenged Garikai to prove the allegations without verification from a handwriting expert, suggesting Gwesela had personal motives.
Garikai agreed that he did not consult the accused before filing the police report.
He also the court that despite suspending the former ZIFA board members, FIFA rejected the SRC’s actions and banned Zimbabwe from international football activities.
This supported the defence’s claim that there was never a valid suspension, as FIFA continued to engage with the board members during the SRC’s allegations.
Garikai conceded that at the time of the alleged misrepresentations, the accused were recognised as the legitimate football leaders in Zimbabwe due to FIFA’s suspension of the country.
The defence argued that Mamutse’s suspension was irregular since he was a ZIFA employee under a private contract, not a board member.
The case will continue on October 31.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Five former ZIFA board members are accused of fraud, but a Sports and Recreation Commission official's testimony could help them. The official said the accused violated suspension terms by using ZIFA letterhead, but the suspension letter did not mention this rule. The official admitted they didn't verify if the accused actually wrote the letters. The accused argue the state should not proceed without a complainant. FIFA also rejected the SRC's actions against the board members. The case will continue on October 31.

SRC Official’s Testimony Brings New Twist To Former ZIFA Board Members' Fraud Case

Former ZIFA president Felton Kamambo has written to FIFA urging the world soccer governing to reverse its decision to lift Zimbabwe’s suspension from international football.
In his letter to FIFA dated 22 October 2023, Kamambo argued that the Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) reneged on one of the conditions of the lifting of Zimbabwe’s suspension.
Kamambo wants FIFA to force SRC to push the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to stop his ongoing case at the Harare magistrates’ court
He said one of the conditions of the lifting of Zimbabwe’s suspension by FIFA was the withdrawal of the charges he is facing.
Kamambo faces charges of criminal abuse of office emanating from his continued use of the ZIFA letterhead while on suspension by the SRC in 2022.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/kamambo-urges-fresh-fifa-ban/">The Herald </a>reported that Kamambo is fronting his colleagues in the ousted ZIFA board, who include Philemon Machana, Bryton Malandule, Stanley Chapeta and ex-chief executive Joseph Mamutse.
In the letter to FIFA, Kamambo alleged that the SRC had deliberately misled FIFA on the court issue. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
This seeks to inform that the SRC, acting together with the National Prosecuting Authority have insisted that the criminal charges levelled against the then General Secretary (Mamutse) and four members of ZIFA will not be withdrawn.
This is against an understanding between ourselves, FIFA and SRC that the SRC had withdrawn criminal charges against us.
A letter purportedly withdrawing the case penned by SRC chairman Gerald Mlotshwa to the NPA copied to ourselves, however, was unclear on the real intentions of the SRC.
In our letter dated 8 July 2023 herewith attached also indicated that the SRC letter was not withdrawing the charges.
Our lawyer’s opinion also herewith attached retaliated (sic) that the SRC was not withdrawing and went further to elaborate the process which is supposed to be followed in order to withdraw the case.
As a result, we were formally advised in court by the NPA that the matter was not going to be withdrawn.
For the avoidance of doubt, we remain accused in a live matter in instances where we had through our lawyers clearly advised in July 2023 that, no withdrawal had been effected and that the SRC letter relied upon as a withdrawal was just a trick to hoodwink FIFA.
We are aware that the decision made by the Bureau of Council was arrived at on the basis of false information by the SRC as has now been confirmed in our last court appearance on the 3rd of October 2023.
We are also aware that the decision by the Bureau Council will require ratification by the full FIFA Council scheduled for the 23rd of October and later Congress for it to remain in force.
We therefore formally advise the FIFA Council that this condition for reinstatement remains unmet and that SRC deceived FIFA into this decision.
Under the circumstances, FIFA is forced to rescind its July decision until all the conditions have been met.
You will note we had agreed with FIFA to step aside to allow our football a chance to come back in circumstances our term of office still had a year to run.
We agreed to this decision and never challenged it for the love of our game and to protect the negatively affected football economy.
In hindsight and in light of the current developments of our continued persecution, we submit that this will need relief by FIFA.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kamambo Urges FIFA To Reimpose ZIFA Suspension

The chairman of the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) Gerald Mlotshwa, has vowed that corrupt officials will never be allowed to control football in Zimbabwe again.
Mlotshwa was speaking on Tuesday at the unveiling of the normalisation committee to manage ZIFA’s affairs until elections are held for new board members in 2024. He said:
<blockquote>
Never again should our football become a victim of unscrupulous administrators and societal miscreants, driven by self-centeredness and egotism as has been the case over the years.
The SRC wishes to express its gratitude for the patience and understanding exhibited by all genuine stakeholders in football.
We are acutely cognisant of the inconvenience, pain, and frustration that the suspension from international football has elicited.
Your endurance has not been in vain. Today marks the genesis of a golden era for Zimbabwean football.
Please accompany us for the remainder of this journey. It promises to be exhilarating, rewarding, and fulfilling.
</blockquote>
Mlotshwa also CAF and FIFA for engaging in productive with SRC resulting in the establishment of the ZIFA normalisation committee. He said:
<blockquote>
The SRC wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to FIFA and CAF.
Ever since the suspension of ZIFA’s Executive Committee by the SRC, we have been engaged in relentless dialogue.
Many doubted the feasibility or authenticity of such an endeavor.
Our presence here today (Tuesday), however, stands as a testament to this fact.
The vigorous debates we engaged in to devise solutions for ZIFA’s troubles never lost sight of our respective statutes and the need for their adherence to fulfilling our responsibilities.
</blockquote>
FIFA unveiled a four-member normalisation committee chaired by former Dynamos player and board chairman, Lincon Mutasa who will be assisted by former Mighty Warriors player and coach Rosemary Mugadza, ex-Highlanders player Sikumbuzo Ndebele, and lawyer Nyasha Sanyamandwe.
The normalisation committee was established this week after FIFA lifted Zimbabwe’s suspension from international football on Monday.
FIFA banned Zimbabwe from international football in 2022 after the SRC had suspended the ZIFA board led by Felton Kamambo in 2021 on allegations of corruption, and sexual abuse of female referees, among other charges.
In 2022, former secretary general of the ZIFA Referees Committee, Obert Zhoya was handed a five-year ban from all football activities by FIFA.
This was after he was found guilty of abusing his position to sexually harass female referees.
Zhoya was fined 20 000 Swiss Francs by FIFA’s adjudicatory chamber.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mlotshwa Vows To Keep "Societal Miscreants" Away From ZIFA

FIFA has lifted Zimbabwe’s suspension from international football with immediate effect, more than a year after it was imposed.
Zimbabwe was indefinitely suspended by FIFA after the country’s sports regulatory body, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), suspended the ZIFA board for corruption among other allegations.
FIFA deemed the sacking of the ZIFA board as third-party interference.
But following several visits by FIFA officials to Zimbabwe, FIFA and SRC finally struck an agreement for the latter to lift the suspension of the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board.
FIFA said it will immediately appoint a normalisation committee to run the affairs of ZIFA in the lead-up to fresh elections. 
This was revealed in a letter addressed to the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) by FIFA General-Secretary Fatma Samoura on Monday. The letter reads in part:
<blockquote>
Under these circumstances, the Bureau of the Council decided on 10 July 2023 to lift the suspension on ZIFA with immediate effect and to appoint immediately a normalisation committee for ZIFA, pursuant to Article 8 paragraph 2 of the FIFA Statutes.
The normalisation committee will consist of a suitable number of members, who will be appointed by FIFA and CAF (Confederation of African Football).
The composition of the normalisation committee will be disclosed separately. 
While the aforementioned persons (Kamambo &amp; Co) will assume their duties with immediate effect, all members of the normalisation committee must pass eligibility checks to be carried out by the FIFA Review Committee in accordance with the FIFA Governance Regulations.
Their confirmation will be contingent upon the outcome of the eligibility check.
Furthermore, the FIFA administration, in consultation with CAF, reserves the right to dismiss any of the members of the normalisation committee and/or to appoint further members at any time.
As the normalisation committee will also act as an electoral committee whose decisions will be taken at first and last instance, none of its members will be eligible for the positions to be filled during the elections under any circumstances, including in the event that their mandate as a member of the normalisation committee has been revoked or that they resign from their position.
The specific period of time during which the normalisation committee shall perform its functions shall expire as soon as it has fulfilled all of its duties as mentioned above, but by 30 June 2024 at the latest.
</blockquote>
This means Zimbabwe will be included in the World Cup qualification competition draw set for Wednesday.
CAF had provisionally included Zimbabwe in their 2026 World Cup African Zone qualifying draw scheduled for Cotonou, Benin.
Zimbabwe will be in Pot 4 when the draw is done and will be in the same lot with Mozambique, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Togo, Tanzania, Central African Republic, Malawi, and Libya.
The World Cup qualifiers are scheduled to start in November.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FIFA Lifts Suspension On Zimbabwe

The suspended ZIFA executive members have given Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Kirsty Coventry a 5-day ultimatum to retract what they consider defamatory remarks or face legal action.
Coventry reportedly made the remarks during a question and answer session in Parliament on 29 March.
She allegedly told Members of Parliament that her Ministry and the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA executive after it had, among several violations, failed to account for US$2 million.
According to Coventry, the US$2 million was given to the ZIFA board by the government ahead of the Warriors’ AFCON 2019 campaign.
Kamambo and his colleagues vehemently denied the allegations during a recent press conference.
They then demanded that Coventry either retract her remarks publicly or face legal action.
In a letter seen by <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/04/05/kamambo-gives-kirsty-coventry-5-day-ultimatum/">Soccer24</a>, the suspended ZIFA board said Coventry “deliberately and brazenly misrepresented facts” hence she should publish and “unconditional withdrawal” of the defamatory’ remarks within five days.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kamambo Orders Kirsty Coventry To Retract "Defamatory Remarks"

FIFA upheld the suspension of Zimbabwe from international football saying the ban can only be lifted when or if the southern African country has implemented its recommendations.
Zimbabwe was suspended in February 2022 after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the ZIFA board headed by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a> over alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees. 
FIFA said the suspension of the Felton Kamambo-led board constituted government interference with the sport.
The ban on Zimbabwe can only be lifted when the Felton Kamambo-led board has been reinstated, FIFA declared.
An overwhelming 199 over 200 people voted for the upholding of the suspension of Zimbabwe at the FIFA Congress being held in Rwanda. 
Meanwhile, SRC has said it did not apply for readmission. SRC board chairman, Gerald Mlotshwa said the commission’s immediate focus remains to oversee the implementation of key reforms which were recommended by the ZIFA Restructuring Committee before any efforts to have the suspension lifted. 
The SRC also says they are no longer in a position to legally reinstate Kamambo since he was recalled by the ZIFA Congress in April 2022. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

FIFA Upholds Zimbabwe Suspension

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sports_and_Recreation_Commission">Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC)</a> has said <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a> must advise FIFA that he was no longer the president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">Zimbabwe Football Association</a> <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">(ZIFA).</a>
Kamambo and several other ZIFA officials <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sports-and-recreation-commission-suspends-zifa-board/">were recalled from office</a> by the SRC on November 26 2021 for alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees.
Nevertheless, FIFA, the world football governing board, still recognises Kamambo and his suspended administration as the official office holders.
FIFA banned Zimbabwe from all of the association’s sanctioned matches arguing that Kamambo’s suspension constituted government interference with the sport.
Last Friday marked a year since Zimbabwe was suspended from the Fifa football family.
Some stakeholders have been calling on SRC to reinstate the Kamambo-led administration, a condition which FIFA gave for the lifting of the ban on Zimbabwe. 
But the SRC says they are no longer in any position to legally reinstate Kamambo since he was recalled by the Zifa congress. SRC board chairman Gerald Mlothswa is quoted by the Standard as saying:
<blockquote>
It is a fact that Mr Felton Kamambo is no longer the Zifa president, having been recalled by his own congress. It follows, logically, that the SRC is not able to reinstate him to that position. Any such attempt would, ironically, be blatantly unlawful in terms of Zifa’s current constitution as well as the Sports and Recreation Commission Act.
It is most regrettable that certain legislators continue to demand that the SRC ignore the resolutions of the Zifa congress, violate Zifa’s constitution, and, incredibly, its own Act, a product of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, in reinstating Mr Kamambo.
There is therefore no legal basis upon which Zifa or indeed the SRC can request Messrs. Kamambo and Mamutse to correspond with Fifa, nor can the latter organization, in light of its views on the outcome of the EGM of April, 2022, demand the same of those persons.
If anything, it is perhaps the correct, if not patriotic thing to do, for these recalled Zifa executive committee members and the suspended general secretary, to formally advise Fifa that they no longer hold office. They owe this nation an apology.
</blockquote>
The SRC insists it has already complied with most of the demands from FIFA for the lifting of the country’s suspension except those that are beyond them such as reinstating Kamambo as the ZIFA president.
It also highlighted that the mandate of the Zifa restructuring committee came to an end in December last year.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Kamambo Must Advise FIFA He's No Longer ZIFA President - SRC

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sports_and_Recreation_Commission">Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC)</a> has said <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a> must advise FIFA that he was no longer the president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">Zimbabwe Football Association</a> <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">(ZIFA).</a>
Kamambo and several other ZIFA officials <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/11/16/sports-and-recreation-commission-suspends-zifa-board/">were recalled from office</a> by the SRC on November 26 2021 for alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees.
Nevertheless, FIFA, the world football governing board, still recognises Kamambo and his suspended administration as the official office holders.
FIFA banned Zimbabwe from all of the association’s sanctioned matches arguing that Kamambo’s suspension constituted government interference with the sport.
Last Friday marked a year since Zimbabwe was suspended from the Fifa football family.
Some stakeholders have been calling on SRC to reinstate the Kamambo-led administration, a condition which FIFA gave for the lifting of the ban on Zimbabwe. 
But the SRC says they are no longer in any position to legally reinstate Kamambo since he was recalled by the Zifa congress. SRC board chairman Gerald Mlothswa is quoted by the Standard as saying:
<blockquote>
It is a fact that Mr Felton Kamambo is no longer the Zifa president, having been recalled by his own congress. It follows, logically, that the SRC is not able to reinstate him to that position. Any such attempt would, ironically, be blatantly unlawful in terms of Zifa’s current constitution as well as the Sports and Recreation Commission Act.
It is most regrettable that certain legislators continue to demand that the SRC ignore the resolutions of the Zifa congress, violate Zifa’s constitution, and, incredibly, its own Act, a product of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, in reinstating Mr Kamambo.
There is therefore no legal basis upon which Zifa or indeed the SRC can request Messrs. Kamambo and Mamutse to correspond with Fifa, nor can the latter organization, in light of its views on the outcome of the EGM of April, 2022, demand the same of those persons.
If anything, it is perhaps the correct, if not patriotic thing to do, for these recalled Zifa executive committee members and the suspended general secretary, to formally advise Fifa that they no longer hold office. They owe this nation an apology.
</blockquote>
The SRC insists it has already complied with most of the demands from FIFA for the lifting of the country’s suspension except those that are beyond them such as reinstating Kamambo as the ZIFA president.
It also highlighted that the mandate of the Zifa restructuring committee came to an end in December last year.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

It has been exactly a year since Zimbabwe was suspended by FIFA.
FIFA announced their decision to <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/02/24/full-text-fifa-suspends-zimbabwe-from-international-competitions/">suspend Zimbabwe </a>on February 25 last year.
This was after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC)’s decision to suspend the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a>-led ZIFA executive for several violations, chief among them failure to account public funds.
A restructuring committee was appointed by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gerald_Mlotshwa">Gerald Mlotshwa</a>-led SRC was appointed to oversee the process of restoring sanity to Zimbabwean football.
Kamambo was recalled at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held on April 23 and replaced by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gift_Banda">Gift Banda </a>on an interim basis.
But FIFA refused to acknowledge the Banda-led administration, insisting that the only condition for the sanction on Zimbabwe to be lifted, is the unconditional reinstatement of Kamambo.
The SRC however  insists getting the ban lifted is not the priority. 
France-based Warriors midfielder <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marshal_Munetsi">/Marshall Munetsi</a> has been the most outspoken footballer concerning the effects of the ban, which has seen all national teams missing out on international competitions.

1 Year Of Isolation For Zimbabwean Football

Local football commentator, George Deda, says Zimbabwe’s suspension from international football will cost the careers of multitudes of young footballers in the country.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/fifa-ban-young-talent-pays-the-cost/">The Manica Post</a>, Deda said local players will not be able to get national team caps which are an essential component of every player’s Curriculum Vitae. He said:
<blockquote>
It is very important for a player to get international caps. It is much easier even if you are talking to foreign clubs that this player has represented his country from Under-17, 20, 23 and so on.
In most cases, we hear of players being signed by Liverpool, for example, and you hear that the deal is subject to securing a work permit.
Securing a work permit for a foreign player takes into account how many matches one played for his country of origin.
This is why about 10 to 15 years ago no player would get a foreign contract if one had not served his country in at least 20 to 25 international caps.
This is why we saw some players being called for national duty and spending the greater part of the match on the bench, only to be introduced for two or three minutes of regulation time remaining.
It was a way of trying to help the players get international caps. Caps do not matter how many minutes you have played, but featuring on the team card.
In some countries like Spain, Germany and many more it is very difficult for a foreign player to get a contract if they do not have the requisite national team caps.
It is a form of certification that a given player is a good player because he has been outstanding in his own country.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe was banned from participating in international football tournaments in 2022 by FIFA due to “third-party interference”.
That was after the Gerald Mlotshwa-led Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board on allegations of misappropriation of public funds and sexual harassment of female referees, among others.
It is now almost a year since the ban was ratified by the FIFA Congress and the country has since missed several international games that include the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.

Young Zim Football Talent Paying The Price For FIFA Ban, Says Deda

Suspended <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA)</a> executives <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a>, Philemon Machana, Stanley Chapeta, Joseph Mamutse and Bryton Malandule have all disputed claims that they used ZIFA letterhead while they were on suspension.
The five are being charged with fraud, an allegation they believe is a fabrication and based on a personal vendetta.
The trial opened Thursday morning before regional magistrate Taurai Manuwere where the five through their lawyer Admire Rubaya tendering their defence to the allegations.
The five argued that <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sports_and_Recreation_Commission">Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC)</a> board chair <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gerald_Mlotshwa">Gerald Mlothswa</a> has a grudge against Machana for causing his arrest in 2004 and an abuse of the justice delivery system. Their defence outline read:
<blockquote>
The accused persons assert that this case is a clear case of abuse of the criminal justice system by members of the SRC board who have been misinforming the political leadership of the republic as well as the general populace.
They further assert that the SRC board chair has a vendetta against the second accused person for causing his arrest sometime around 2004 when the second accused was still an accountant for the company which complained against the SRC board chairperson.
</blockquote>
They said their suspension is of no effect as it is not recognized by FIFA and CAF and has caused the suspension of the country’s football and reduced the local league to a boozers’ tournament.
It is also their argument that the move by SRC is a diversionary tactic to have the nation banned in the guise of interference yet the reason is a lack of proper infrastructure.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Suspended ZIFA Board Disputes Using The Association's Letterhead

The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), has said the male and female national football teams – Warriors and Mighty Warriors – should receive direct budgetary and administrative support from the government.
The SRC made the recommendations in a statement titled, “<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zifa-restructuring-committee-hands-over-report-to-src/">Presentation of Key Recommendations of the ZIFA Restructuring Committee</a>.” Read in part the statement seen by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
<h2>5.2 The Warriors and Mighty Warriors</h2>
The committee recommended that these national teams should be housed in a structure that receives direct budgetary and administrative support from Government whilst ensuring that FIFA rules are respected in so far as the principle of non-interference is concerned.
<h2>5.3 Junior Football</h2>
The committee recommended that ZIFA develop a standardized system to rate academy programs and school programs.
There should be developed a national database for all junior players that is functional and easily accessible.
Additionally, ZIFA should develop and support quality leagues and competitions accessible for all ages and skill levels.
<h2>5.4 Women’s Football</h2>
Women should be empowered to manage their own affairs in football. Key to this is allowing them to have direct access to FIFA funding so that it is applied to purposes intended. Women should be included at all levels of the game’s administration on a quota system.
<h2>5.5 Facilities</h2>
ZIFA should be at the forefront, either with FIFA’s assistance, or through effective lobbying of Government and local authorities, of developing facilities that encourage use for football games at a professional and recreational level. 
There should be a FIFA-rated national training centre. ZIFA village is not fit for purpose.
<h2>5.6 Communication &amp; Marketing</h2>
ZIFA relies almost exclusively on FIFA and CAF funding for its operations. It was recommended that ZIFA invest in senior business strategy and marketing positions. It should respect and maximize partnerships and retail opportunities and identify new revenue streams. ZIFA should be run as a business, not as a fiefdom or cabal.
<h2>5.7 Development of Administrators</h2>
Office bearers, administrators and coaches must have minimal CAF and FIFA qualifications and/or training. Coaching standards must be set and regulated.
<h2>5.8 Football in Schools</h2>
ZIFA should develop a specific strategy as part of a five-year plan for fostering football in the school system, especially for girls.
</blockquote>
The SRC also said it had provided the findings and recommendations of the restructuring committee to the Executive Committee of ZIFA for the purposes of drafting a roadmap. 
The committee also said once they are on the same page with ZIFA, the two organisations will then approach FIFA for endorsement.
SRC suspended the ZIFA board then led by Felton Kamambo for alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees. The move attracted a ban on Zimbabwean football by FIFA which accused the government of interfering with the sport. Zimbabwe remains banned.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Warriors, Mighty Warriors Should Receive Direct Budgetary Support From Govt" - SRC

The forensic audit report into the financial activities of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) which was released to the public on Thursday suggests that over US$600 000 and $73 000 000 could not be accounted for.
The 54-page report seen by Pindula News was produced by BDO Zimbabwe Chartered Accountants. The auditors audited ZIFA books of accounts in the period 1 December 2018 and 30 November 2021 during which the association was led by Felton Kamambo. Read part of the report:
<blockquote>
<h2>Africa Cup of Nations 2019 (AFCON) Charter plane </h2>
ZIFA sought quotations and prepared and approved a budget for costs to be incurred in preparing for and during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2019 tournament which was to be held in Cairo, Egypt in June 2019. ZIFA then wrote to the Sports and Recreation Commission requesting for budgetary support. The budget included US$57,000 for airfares to the tournament”. 
We, however, noted that on 12 June 2019, the ZIFA Emergency Committee approved the chartering of a plane to Cairo at a cost of US$150,000. This means ZIFA overspent by an amount of US$93,000 on travel costs alone”.
The minutes of the Emergency Committee meeting which were availed to us were not signed and no justification has been given to us as to why this decision was made. 
</blockquote>
Maladministration is one of the accusations that were raised by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) when it suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board.
<blockquote>
<a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/ZIFA-Report_final.pdf">ZIFA-Report_final</a>
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Audit Report: ZIFA Overspent US$93k On Travel Costs Alone During AFCON 2019

Former ZIFA president Felton Kamambo and other suspended executive members have advised interim ZIFA president, Gift Banda, against distributing football equipment purchased using FIFA funds.
Kamambo and fellow board members Philemon Machana and Bryton Malandule recently wrote a letter to Banda warning him that distributing the equipment will strain future relations between ZIFA and FIFA.
The letter, which was written by the lawyers representing the suspended board members, Rubaya and Chatambudza, reads:
<blockquote>
It has come to our clients’ attention that at a meeting dubbed “The ZIFA EGM” you arranged and attended together with your colleagues and subsequently resolved to distribute football equipment purchased using FIFA funds strictly for FIFA-sanctioned programs despite previous communications from FIFA and CAF that you are to desist from utilising their financial resources.
Having previously helped yourselves to an amount equivalent to US$108 000 before you were directed through a letter by CAF and FIFA, we are at a loss as to why you and your grouping would proceed to agree to share the equipment from a donor (FIFA) who has not authorised you to do so and who has previously stated that they do not recognise you as the legitimate leaders of ZIFA and directed times without number that you should not utilise their resources.
</blockquote>
The Kamambo-led ZIFA executive was suspended by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) in November last year over allegations including misappropriations of public funds.
Banda and his team were appointed in the interim but FIFA rejected the move and demanded the reinstatement of the suspended board members.
Early this year, FIFA banned Zimbabwe from the international football family as a result, citing government interference. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002922/couple-rapes-biological-children">NewsDay</a>

Kamambo Warns Interim ZIFA President Gift Banda

The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has urged football stakeholders to wait for the official ZIFA forensic report which is set to be signed off “shortly” by the auditors.
This comes after a draft ZIFA Audit Report done by BDO Zimbabwe Chartered Accountants was recently leaked on social media.
The partial audit, which covers the period between December 1, 2018, and November 21, 2021, revealed that almost US$2 million and $112 million were spent in a manner deemed improper.
In a statement, the SRC called on football stakeholders and the public to wait until the report is presented to the ZIFA Congress at the end of this month. SRC said:
<blockquote>
There are certainly very significant sums of money received by ZIFA that cannot be accounted for during the review period of 1st December 2018 to 30th November 2021.
The auditors have not signed off on the draft forensic audit report. They will do so shortly.
The ZIFA Audit Report, once formally and procedurally presented to the restructuring committee that commissioned it, is ultimately intended for the benefit of the members of ZIFA to consider during their general meeting slated for the end of October 2022.
Accordingly, we advise stakeholders and the public alike to exercise reasonable caution in drawing any conclusions at this point.
</blockquote>
According to the leaked report, the ZIFA executive committee led by Felton Kamambo received US$100 000 in unexplained payouts.
Suspended ZIFA president Kamambo got US$20 000, the board member finance who assumed the vice-president’s role Philemon Machana received US$18 000 while the other four board members Farai Jere, Sugar Chagonda, Chikosi and Bryton Malandule each got US$15 500. | <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/src-calls-for-calm-after-zifa-forensic-report-is-released/">B-Metro</a>

SRC Speaks On Leaked ZIFA Audit Report

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Executive Committee led by acting president Gift Banda met on Friday 14 October 2022, in Harare and deliberated on a number of issues affecting local football.
The ZIFA Executive Committee resolved to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on the 29th of October 2022.
ZIFA Acting General Secretary Xolisani Gwesela said the agenda of the EGM will be the Executive Committee Report, the ZIFA Executive Committee and Congress tenure and the Forensic Audit Report. He added:
<blockquote>
The Executive Committee deliberated on improving the standards of refereeing in the country citing that professional refereeing preserves the sacrosanct values of the game.
The executive committee applauded the referees’ committee and referees for improving refereeing standards through the continuous capacity development of referees, commissioners and referee assessors.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, ZIFA is still suspended from international football by FIFA following the November 2021 suspension of the elected ZIFA board that was led by Felton Kamambo by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
Recently, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/parliament-gives-minister-coventry-ultimatum-to-ensure-src-reverses-suspension-of-zifa-board/">members of Parliament gave Sports Minister, Kirtsy Coventry, a 31 October 2022 ultimatum</a> to ensure that the SRC reinstates the Kamambo-led ZIFA board.

ZIFA To Hold Extraordinary General Meeting On 29 October

Members of Parliament have given Sports Minister, Kirtsy Coventry an ultimatum to ensure that the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has reinstated the suspended ZIFA board led by Felton Kamambo.
SRC suspended the board over allegations of ed administration and sexual assault prompting FIFA to suspend the southern African country over “government interference” with the sport.
In a document titled “The State of football administration in Zimbabwe,” which was presented to Parliament, the Portfolio Committee on Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation said:
<blockquote>
The committee expressed its concern on (the) overwhelming public outcry following the ban imposed on Zimbabwe by Fifa.
It is, indeed, in the interest of the public at large and the soccer governing board in particular, to get the country back on the international scene in the world of football. As observed by Fifa, government interference in football matters has far-reaching implications that can undermine the country’s ability to enjoy the potential benefits that can accrue from participating at international fora.
As such, there is need to observe and respect both the national and international statues, rules and regulations governing football administration.
Therefore, the committee implores the SRC to reverse its decision and implement recommendations by Fifa so as to allow the country to participate in international football competitions.
The committee made the following observations: 6.1 by October 31, 2022 the Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation ministry should ensure that SRC board has repealed its decision of;
(a) November 26, 2020 which suspended the Zifa general secretary;
(b) November 16, 2021 which suspended the Zifa board and;
(c) December 17, 2021 which established the Zifa restructuring committee; in order to pave way for the lifting of the ban imposed by Fifa on Zimbabwe from participating in international football competitions.
</blockquote>
The parliamentary committee is chaired by Chivi North MP Mathias Tongofa and some of its notable members include acting Zifa president Gift Banda and ex-Zifa vice-president Omega Sibanda. 
The parliamentary committee also called for amendments to section 34 of the SRC Act [Chapter 25:15].
An official in the SRC board who spoke in his own capacity said SRC would only be guided by the findings of the forensic audit into ZIFA’s financial affairs which is set to be released soon. The official told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
The report is obviously authored by Omega Sibanda, with very little input or even knowledge of the other committee members. It is riddled with embarrassing errors.
The recommendations violate both international and domestic law norms, and display an alarming ignorance of the governance shortcomings within Zifa; luckily Fifa has acknowledged these shortcomings by banning a senior Zifa official for sexual harassment of female referees.
</blockquote>
The official said the committee’s recommendations implicitly condone sexual harassment and other corrupt practices within the running of football and tread upon the statutory mandate and independence of the SRC.
The ban has affected players and Zimbabwe has since missed some competitions much to the annoyance of football lovers.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Parliament Gives Minister Coventry Ultimatum To Ensure SRC Reverses Suspension Of ZIFA Board

Football players in the Kenyan topflight league clubs have refused to play football until the deadlock between the country’s government and FIFA has been resolved.
Like Zimbabwe, Kenya was banned by FIFA over government interference in the administration of the game.
The two nations are banned from taking part in any FIFA-sanctioned event and were booted out of continental competitions for both the national teams and the clubs.
Kenyan football teams have taken a stand to stop playing in the topflight league, hoping to force their government to mend its relations with FIFA.
According to the Nation, Gor Mahia chief executive Raymond Oruo read a joint statement from the 18 topflight clubs, saying the teams would only honour fixtures when the current standoff between FIFA and the Kenyan government is resolved.
The clubs on Wednesday said they would not take part in the 2022/23 season. Oruo said:
<blockquote>
We will not take part in any competition that is not recognised or sanctioned by world governing body because it is really a waste of investment and time and very little return coming through.
</blockquote>
He said the failure of Kenyan club Tusker to participate in the Caf Champions League was one of the issues which informed their decision.
In Zimbabwe, football players have been taking to social media to express their frustrations at the ban on Zimbabwe by FIFA, also hoping to influence the local authorities to act to get the ban lifted.
Recently, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) said getting the ban lifted was not one of its priorities, but would rather press on with its ZIFA restructuring exercise which could culminate in elections next year.
FIFA previously indicated that it will endorse the outcome of the ZIFA elections stressing that the ban can only be lifted if ZIFA board members Felton Kamambo, Philemon Machana and Bryton Malandule are reinstated.
They were fired last year when SRC dissolved the board last year over alleged maladministration.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Footballers In Kenyan Topflight League Clubs Refuse To Play Over FIFA Ban

The former secretary general of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Referees Committee, Obert Zhoya has been handed a five-year ban from all football activities by the world football governing body, FIFA.
This was after he was found guilty of abusing his position to sexually harass female referees.
Zhoya has also been fined 20 000 Swiss Francs by FIFA’s adjudicatory chamber.
In a statement FIFA said:
<blockquote>
The adjudicatory chamber of the independent Ethics Committee has banned Obert Zhoya, former secretary general of the Referees Committee of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) from all football-related activities for five years, after having found him guilty of abusing his position to sexually harass three female ZIFA referees. In addition, the adjudicatory chamber imposed a fine amounting to CHF 20,000 on Mr Zhoya.
“Upon careful analysis of the written statements of the victims as well as the various evidence collected during the investigations conducted by the investigatory chamber, the adjudicatory chamber was comfortably satisfied that Zhoya had breached art. 23 (Protection of physical and mental integrity), art. 25 (Abuse of position) and, by corollary, art. 13 (General duties) of the Code of Ethics.
</blockquote>
The terms of the decision were notified to Zhoya today, the date on which the ban comes into force, and will be followed by notification of the grounds within the next 60 days following the Code of Ethics.
Zhoya stepped down from his position in April this year following allegations of sexual harassment raised by female referees.
Zhoya’s resignation marked the first time that a senior official linked to suspended ZIFA president Felton Kamambo quit the association.
One of Zhoya’s alleged victims claimed that she had been “humiliated, intimidated and degraded” after he reportedly asked her via WhatsApp to spend the night with him in a hotel. 
The sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the Kamambo-led administration over the sexual abuse and fraud allegations. This prompted FIFA to suspend ZIFA for political interference. The ban is still effective.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Former ZIFA Official Handed 5-year Ban From All Football Activities

United States of America-based Warriors goalkeeper Tatenda Mkuruva has urged Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) to resolve their differences for Zimbabwe to be readmitted to international football competitions.
The 26-year-old former Dynamos player, who now plays for Michigan Stars in the third tier of American football, described Zimbabwe’s suspension by FIFA as a “shame”. Mkuruva wrote on Facebook:
<blockquote>
It is very sad to see what’s happening to our beautiful game of football in Zim, the ban on all our national and local teams from participating in international football competitions is a shame.
It’s high time that our leaders or parties involved sit down and resolve all these conflicts to save our football…
Football players are losing time, chances and all opportunities to be recognized internationally to further their careers.
How do we expect as a nation to compete at the highest level of football when the talented young generation’s dreams are being shattered by things that can be easily solved?
</blockquote>
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe from international football early this year after SRC suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board in October last year.
The world governing body ordered SRC to unconditionally reinstate the suspended board for it to lift Zimbabwe’s suspension. However, SRC has hitherto refused to reverse its decision.
Zimbabwe has already been barred from taking part in the qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the African Nations Championships (CHAN) and this year’s edition of the COSAFA Cup because of the FIFA suspension.

U.S.-based Warriors Goalkeeper Urges SRC, ZIFA To Resolve Differences

Suspended ZIFA board members say they are ready to stand trial and clear their names following their suspension by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) in November 2021 on a litany of allegations.
The five are in court accused of abusing the ZIFA letterhead, writing letters claiming to be the executive members yet they were on suspension.
They have been pushing for their trial but the State has been seeking postponements on the pretext of completing investigations.
On Friday, prosecutor Anesu Chirenje sought another postponement to September saying the docket had been sent back to the police station for completion of investigations.
But the five’s attorney, Admire Rubaya challenged postponement, saying they should be freed if the State is not ready for trial. Said Rubaya:
<blockquote>
The accused persons are viewed as thieves in the court of public opinion but thieves are those that have invaded the ZIFA house. All they are saying is give us a trial date.
They want to assert their rights and clear their names but the State is developing jelly legs.
If they are not ready to put them on trial they should let them go and summon them when they are ready.
They know there was no offence committed and they are stuck with the docket.
</blockquote>
Rubaya said the suspension of the ZIFA board and the appointment of an “illegitimate” new ZIFA board led by Gilbert Banda amounted to a “coup”. He said:
<blockquote>
We can’t have a situation where certain individuals force out legitimate leaders that were legitimately elected into office. If it was in politics this would be a coup.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/we-are-not-thieves-real-thieves-are-there-kamambo-and-crew/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

'Thieves Are Those Who Have Invaded ZIFA House', Says Kamambo

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has written to FIFA to inform them of the latest developments in local football.
ZIFA is courting FIFA to have Zimbabwe readmitted to the global football family after the country was suspended from all international football tournaments early this year for violating FIFA statutes.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, acting ZIFA president Gift Banda said they are hopeful FIFA will accept the outcome of the ZIFA Emergency General Meeting (EGM) held in April this year. Said, Banda:
<blockquote>
We are trying to express to FIFA that what we did (extraordinary general meeting) was according to our constitution …
We also followed the opinions of FIFA on how we were supposed to hold our EGM, and we doubt very much that FIFA will be interested in individuals more than the association.
It is our hope FIFA will understand that the ZIFA board is not individuals. We wrote to them (FIFA) and we now await their response.
</blockquote>
Banda was elected interim president after the ZIFA EGM that cut ties with then-president Felton Kamambo, Philemon Machana and Brighton Malandule.
The same ZIFA EGM lifted the suspensions of Barbra Chikosi, Farai Jere and Sugar Chagonda with immediate effect.
Chikosi, Jere and Chagonda are Zimbabwe Women Soccer League chairperson, Premier Soccer League chairman, and ZIFA board member in charge of competitions, in that order.
Banda was elected vice president in 2018 but spent most of his tenure on the sidelines after he was suspended by Kamambo in January 2019.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zifa-engage-fifa-on-way-forward">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

ZIFA Engages FIFA On Way Forward After Holding EGM

Acting Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Gift Banda said that all stakeholders should be involved in finding lasting solutions to the challenges bedevilling local football.
Banda was recently installed as the interim chairman after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended ZIFA president Felton Kamambo and some members of his board.
Speaking to The Herald on Monday, Banda said ZIFA had been turned into a fiefdom by a few elite administrators who were shutting out other football stakeholders to protect their selfish interests. Said, Banda:
<blockquote>
It’s high time we include everyone in our football. There are some people who felt they were being shut out of our football so we would want everyone to have a say going forward.
Former players, administrators, supporters and all the other key stakeholders should come together for this purpose.
Everyone agrees that there is something wrong with the way our football was being run. We need to get our football back to the factory settings.
It’s not about just playing football without addressing the fundamentals because we will never go anywhere. It doesn’t help to play in tournaments and lose continuously.
We need to address issues via continuous engagements with all the stakeholders so that we become competitive again.
If we involve everyone and push in one direction, we can succeed.
Probably the only people who are afraid to have people around are the ones who are afraid are the ones who know they have been doing things wrongly.
But this board is saying we want inclusivity. We can’t have a situation where we want good and cordial relations with the Government and SRC only when we want money. That’s unfair.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zifa-src-in-continuous-engagements/">The Herald</a></h4>

"ZIFA Had Been Turned Into A Fiefdom By A Few Administrators"

Warriors vice-captain Ovidy Karuru has implored the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) and ZIFA to find a mutual understanding and end their stand-off for the sake of protecting footballers’ careers.
Zimbabwe was suspended from international football by FIFA after the SRC suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA executive.
FIFA has demanded that SRC reinstate the ZIFA board for the suspension to be lifted but the country’s sports regulatory body has so far ignored FIFA’s demands.
As a result, the Warriors’ participation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers is doubtful.
Karuru, who plays for Al-Shoulla in the Saudi Arabian second tier, said SRC and ZIFA officials should put their egos aside and consider the careers of footballers. Karuru said:
<blockquote>
Both the SRC and ZIFA should imagine if they were the players, how would they feel about what’s happening?
They are our fathers and mothers and they should also consider the feelings of their sons and daughters who play football.
If they had a son or daughter who plays football, were they really gonna be fighting like this?
We just hope and pray that God will help so that they stop whatever is happening for the sake of the country.
I think one should humble themselves and let it go for the sake of the country and make the people of Zimbabwe happy by allowing international football.
As for the players, I don’t really think it will affect people like myself, (Knowledge) Musona (Tinotenda) Kadewere, (Marvelous) Nakamba, (Marshall) Munetsi, (Teenage) Hadebe etc, because we are already out of the country.
The players that will really be affected are those based at home with dreams to play outside the country because we all know back home things are tough and most of these players are breadwinners because they come from poor backgrounds just like all of us but God helped us to play outside.
There is CHAN that we all know that it’s for local players and because of that tournament I got a contract outside the country so imagine without tournaments like this for 2 years, are the players still gonna be in the same form they have now?
</blockquote>
Let’s look at a player Like Bill Antonio. Do you think he wants to wait 2 years before he gets a contract outside the country?
<blockquote>
No. Because in football a lot of things happen maybe he won’t the same after 2 years because of frustrations so they should really be there for soccer players and consider the impact that international football has on soccer players.
It’s everyone’s dream to play for the national team even if you ask the oldest player in Zim local league what their dream is they will tell you to play for Zimbabwe.
So please we beg you SRC and ZIFA not to kill these dreams but help them to be archived they should sit down together and come up with an agreement so that the boys won’t give up on their dreams and start doing drugs because not everyone is strong to keep fighting without getting what they dream of.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2022/05/11/please-save-football-find-common-ground-karuru-urges-src-zifa/">Soccer24</a></h4>

Karuru Urges SRC, ZIFA To Lay Their Egos Aside And Save Zim Football

Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Referees Committee secretary-general, Obert Zhoya, has resigned from his post following allegations of sexual harassment raised by female referees.
Zhoya’s resignation marks the first time that a senior official linked to suspended ZIFA president Felton Kamambo has quit the association.
One of Zhoya’s alleged victims claimed that she had been “humiliated, intimidated and degraded” after he reportedly asked her via WhatsApp to spend the night with him in a hotel. She wrote to ZIFA:
<blockquote>
I would like to put on record that he had been making these unwelcome sexual advances since September 2019.
The allegations I make herein are backed by evidence in the form of phone call voice recordings.
I then got the courage from the evidence I had and learned that I’m not the only one (who) was subject to this harassment.
I have been on the ZIFA (referees) panel since 2019, I’m 30 years old. I expected to be treated with respect, not like a lady of the night.
I, however, request you to look into the matter and possibly address the issue and in the process protect me and my fellow female referees who are suffering silently.
</blockquote>
According to a report by a British newspaper, The Guardian, both FIFA and CAF confirmed that they were aware of the allegations of the sexual harassment of the female referees by some named ZIFA officials.
In his resignation letter, Zhoya acknowledged the status of Xolisani Gwesela, as the acting chief executive at ZIFA, a position that is disputed by the suspended ZIFA board. Said Zhoya:
<blockquote>
This letter serves to inform you that I have, with immediate effect, resigned as secretary-general of the Zimbabwe Football Association Referees Committee, a position that I have been holding since March 2019.
I have taken this decision purely on professional grounds so as to pass the baton to new blood for the development of referees.
Let me take this opportunity to thank the Zimbabwe Football Association for entrusting me with this responsibility and I would want to wish the Zimbabwe football family well.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/its-getting-ugly-kamambo-ally-throws-in-towel/">H-Metro</a></h4>

ZIFA Official Resigns Amid Female Referees Sexual Harassment Allegations

A Harare magistrate has dismissed an application by suspended Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Felton Kamambo and Philemon Machana to have their passport released to enable them to travel to Doha, Qatar, for the FIFA Congress next week.
Kamambo and Machana’s passports are being held by the court as part of their bail conditions in an alleged criminal abuse of office case.
The duo’s lawyer, Admire Rubaya, argued that the court must suspend the bail conditions for the accused to allow them to attend the FIFA congress so that they can persuade the world football governing body to remove the sanctions it imposed on Zimbabwean football. Rubaya argued:
<blockquote>
By March 31, Zimbabwe is risking being fully banned which will have consequences for the country.
The accused will go to bridge the dispute with FIFA so that the country cannot be banned for long.
They must be allowed to save Zimbabwean soccer. The State had not responded to our letter.
</blockquote>
However, Harare magistrate Stanford Mambanje dismissed an application noting that the State has already announced that it is prepared to face the consequences, therefore, Kamambo and Machana’s absence at the congress will not prejudice the country.
In any case, the duo’s charges emanated from communicating with FIFA when they are on suspension, hence, the temporary release of their passports was similar to the removal of their charges, noted Mambanje.
Kamambo, Machana and their co-accused ZIFA chief executive officer Joseph Mamutse and Brighton Malandule were suspended by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) last year on charges of fraud, failing to investigate sexual harassment allegations, among others.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/03/court-blocks-kamambos-fifa-trip/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Court Blocks Kamambo From Travelling To Qatar

Members of Parliament have urged the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) to reinstate the suspended ZIFA board for the sake of footballers’ careers.
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe from international football after the SRC had dissolved the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board on 16 November 2021 on allegations of misuse of public funds, sexual harassment of female referees and incompetence among other issues.
The SRC has since appointed a restructuring committee that will run football matters in the country until fresh ZIFA elections are held.
The SRC board appeared before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee for Sport on Thursday where legislators asked why the SRC could not wait for ZIFA board members to be voted out in elections set for December.
SRC chairperson Gerald Mlotshwa explained to the MPs why the ZIFA board was suspended and also outlined the way forward. On the issue of sexual allegations against members of the ZIFA Board, Mlotshwa said:
<blockquote>
Initially, we had three complaints of sexual harassment but investigations revealed that sexual harassment was insidious. There was sex for games. Sleep with me and I will give you a game.
</blockquote>
The MPs generally seemed to appreciate the issues that were raised by the SRC that led to the suspension of the ZIFA board, but said the country will suffer as a result of the ban.
Former ZIFA boss, Omega Sibanda complained that the FIFA ban closes opportunities for Zimbabwean players. He said:
<blockquote>
For the period that this process is going to be taking place, our players will not be able to move internationally. They cannot transfer from one country to another.
Tino Kadewere, who was supposed to move, will not be able to do that for as long as the ban is in effect.
Our players will suffer, let’s look at the welfare and careers of the players.
</blockquote>
Mlotshwa insisted that the suspension of the ZIFA board and the SRC’s refusal to give in to FIFA’s demands to reinstate the board was for the good of local football. He said:
<blockquote>
Let’s not focus on what FIFA will say. What we are trying to do is for the future of football in this country. We cannot continue postponing the process.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/03/mps-demand-kamambo-return/">NewsDay</a></h4>

FIFA Ban Will Negatively Affect Players' Careers - MPs

Some officials within the refereeing fraternity allegedly aligned to the suspended ZIFA board are reportedly planning to disrupt the domestic Premiership, and the regional Division One leagues.
H-Metro quoted a source as saying there is a plot to use some referees to cause chaos with questionable decisions to ensure that sponsors will terminate the sponsorship causing the top-flight and second-tier leagues to grind to a halt.
The officials who are reportedly planning to destabilise the leagues feel that their future in the game is under threat as long as the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board remains suspended. A source told H-Metro:
<blockquote>
Remember the chaos we saw during that week when the ZIFA board was suspended in November last year, and a number of referees were ordered not to officiate in matches even when they had already done their warm-ups?
What that incident showed is that some of the ZIFA Referees Committee bosses have an allegiance to the suspended board members because they were put into their roles by the suspended executive committee members.
It has always been the trend that once a new ZIFA executive committee takes over, the referees’ committee bosses also change and, in a way, this means that those who will be leading the referees owe their positions to the national executive in charge of the game.
Right now, we have Mr (Obert) Zhoya, he is the number two in the ZIFA Referees Committee and he is still calling the shots there, despite all the things which have been said about him, concerning the allegations by some of the female referees.
Recently, he even sent a text on our social media group talking about women referees who wanted to be involved in a test, and that shows he is still calling the shots and he is clearly aligned to the suspended executive.
Now, we are seeing all these questionable appointments of referees and you think it’s all a coincidence, of course, it’s not, it’s part of a plan and they want to see these referees coming up with wild decisions, which will result in chaos at the matches.
The whole plan is to try and make the sponsors, especially in the PSL and the Division One in the Northern Region, which are sponsored, withdraw their sponsorship, because of the chaos, so that football in those leagues grind to a halt.
This arrangement, where the local leagues are being played, according to them, is giving the impression that everything is normal in Zimbabwean football, without the participation of the suspended executive committee members, and this is the picture they don’t want to see.
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Hardley Ndazi, who was the referee in charge of the match between Bulawayo Chiefs and Dynamos at Barbourfields on Saturday, has been accused of being biased against DeMbare.
The H-Metro source suggested that it was not a coincidence he was handed that match but the assignment was deliberate so that he will cause trouble.
There was chaos during the match, forcing a 15-minute stoppage after Bulawayo Chiefs were awarded a penalty in the second half.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/plot-to-destabilise-premiership-exposed/">H-Metro</a></h4>

Felton Kamambo Supporters Planning To Destabilise Premiership

Suspended Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Felton Kamambo and board member responsible for finance, Philemon Machana, have been arrested on various allegations.
Kamambo and Machana were on Saturday arrested by Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers for fraud and contempt of the Sports and Recreation Commission Act, which was applied in their suspension on 16 November 2021.
The SRC suspended the Kamambo-led ZIFA last November on several allegations, chief among them the board’s failure to account for public funds.
The commission acted in accordance with section 30 of the SRC Act.
Kamambo, however, continued to issue statements in the capacity of ZIFA president and used the official ZIFA letterhead in all his correspondence.
It is further alleged that Kamambo fraudulently used public funds as well as changed ZIFA accounts while under suspension.
The suspended ZIFA board even went on to suspended members of the ZIFA secretariat and Premier Soccer League governors, moves which resulted in the SRC involving the police leading to the duo’s arrest.
Kamambo and Machana are being held at Highlands Police Station and are expected to appear in court on Monday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2022/02/12/just-in-kamambo-arrested/">Soccer24</a>, <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/kamambo-arrested/">ZBC News</a></h4>

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