The High Court has dismissed Walter Magaya’s legal challenge against his disqualification from contesting the upcoming ZIFA presidential elections, scheduled for January 25. The court upheld the decision that Magaya failed to meet the eligibility requirements for the position.
Justice Tawanda Chitapi ruled on the matter, emphasizing the necessity for candidates to meet the stipulated academic criteria, which includes having at least five O’ Level passes.
“I accept that the minimum was a pass with 5 O’ Levels. A requirement to have 5 O’ Levels must be met,” Justice Chitapi stated.
The judge clarified that higher qualifications, such as a diploma or a PhD, do not exempt a candidate from providing proof of the basic educational requirement.
“Just for the avoidance of doubt, if one relies on a diploma, the issue is not that a diploma is higher than O’ Level. The applicant would be required to produce an O’ Level certificate even if he holds a PhD,” explained Justice Chitapi.
The ruling pointed out that Magaya had not provided sufficient information or evidence to rectify the decision of the ZIFA electoral committee.
“In the present matter, the applicant has been coy in disclosing further information regarding his qualifications to correct the committee’s decision,” the judge remarked.
As a result, Justice Chitapi dismissed Magaya’s application, concluding that the challenge lacked merit.
“The challenge by the applicant cannot succeed. His application is dismissed. Each party to pay its costs,” Justice Chitapi ruled.
This decision solidifies Magaya’s exclusion from the ZIFA presidential race, leaving the field open for the remaining eligible candidates ahead of the crucial elections.
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