The race to shape the future of Zimbabwean football has officially begun, with over 50 candidates filing their nominations for various positions on the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) board.
The much-anticipated elections, scheduled for January 25 next year, promise to usher in a new era for the sport following years of turmoil.
Former players, referees, administrators, and football stakeholders have thrown their hats into the ring, signaling a highly competitive election. The deadline for nominations passed on Wednesday, with the vetting process expected to conclude by December 23. A final list of candidates will be published on January 15.
Two big names confirmed their bid for the ZIFA presidency on Wednesday night: former Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari and ex-Dynamos and Highlanders star Makwinji Soma-Phiri.
Both bring vast experience and a commitment to revitalizing Zimbabwean football.
“I am in the race. My papers are in,” said Mwaruwari from the UK. The former Warriors captain enjoyed a glittering career spanning stints with Grasshoppers in Switzerland, Auxerre in France, and English clubs Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, and Portsmouth.
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Soma-Phiri, a decorated player with over 40 years of experience in the game, is also vying for the presidency and other roles, including vice-president and board member. As a former player who represented both Dynamos and Highlanders and collected numerous trophies, Soma-Phiri believes he has the passion and knowledge to rebuild Zimbabwean football.
“To effect meaningful change, you have to be part of the decision-making process. It’s about putting the game and the nation first, with no personal agenda but for collective success,” said Soma-Phiri.
Other former football greats have also joined the race. James Takavada, a past Soccer Star of the Year, has been nominated for the vice-presidency, while Alois Bunjira, another Soccer Star of the Year, is eyeing a board member role.
Harrington Shereni, a former Dynamos and Warriors left-back who also played in Switzerland, is seeking a position as a board member.
The elections come at a critical time for Zimbabwean football, which has struggled with governance challenges and instability since Leo Mugabe’s departure in 2003. The influx of former players, club owners, and experienced administrators has created optimism for a more unified and professional leadership.
Observers are keenly watching the election process, with hopes that the new board will restore order, integrity, and development to the beautiful game in Zimbabwe. As Soma-Phiri aptly put it, this election is not about personal glory but about laying a foundation for collective success.
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