Opposition leader Linda Masarira has urged Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) councillors to support Temba Mliswa for the position of ZIFA president, asserting that he is the best candidate to lead the organization into a new era of accountability, professionalism, and progress.
Masarira, the head of the LEAD party, emphasized that Mliswa’s leadership style, marked by his directness and strong decision-making abilities, makes him well-suited to address the corruption and inefficiencies that have plagued ZIFA for years.
Mliswa, a former ZANU PF Mashonaland West chair, Norton MP, and village head, is known for his hands-on approach to leadership. Masarira highlighted his extensive experience in the sporting sector, stating that Mliswa’s background in fitness and sports administration gives him the unique qualifications needed to tackle the challenges facing Zimbabwean football.
She praised Mliswa for his track record of delivering results as an MP, particularly in raising funds for local development projects. Masarira believes this practical experience demonstrates his capacity to bring about meaningful change at ZIFA.
Masarira also argued that Mliswa’s leadership would restore credibility to Zimbabwean football and lay the foundation for future success, benefiting players, fans, and stakeholders alike.
However, the candidate has faced criticism from his ex-girlfriend, Susan Mutami, who raised concerns about his suitability for the role. Mutami claimed that Mliswa’s behavior lacks the decorum needed for such a prestigious position and warned of potential risks for female soccer players and staff under his leadership. She also accused him of neglecting his responsibilities as a father.
ALSO READ ; Britain Rejects Zimbabwe’s Readmission to Commonwealth, Cites Human Rights Concerns