THE race for the Zifa presidency remains tight, with South Africa-based businessman and ex-president, Trevor Carelse Juul becoming the latest to officially declare his interest to succeed Cuthbert Dube.
BY TAWANDA TAFIRENYIKA
Dube was booted out of office after a vote of no confidence in him by disgruntled councillors, who accused him of maladministration among other ills. By entering the race, Juul has set himself up for a battle with Harare businessman, Philip Chiyangwa.
Juul’s forms were expected to be submitted at the Zifa offices yesterday, before the close of nominations today. Although Juul is still in South Africa, his backers have laid the groundwork and believe he should be given another chance after he lost to Dube in the previous election.
Chiyangwa has hit the ground running. He has been assured of 16 votes from regional chairpersons, who met in Zvishavane at the weekend and endorsed his candidature. Women’s football has also assured him of four votes.
It is understood that former Premier Soccer League secretary-general, ex-Dynamos secretary-general and Harare City Football Club chairman, Leslie Gwindi and former Warriors, defender James Takavada are also keen on entering the race.
The race for the Zifa vice-presidency is tight too, with several influential figures declaring their interests. Former Dynamos chairman, Lincoln Mutasa has entered the fray, so has former Warriors skipper Benjani Mwaruwari.
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There is also Bulawayo businessman, Omega Sibanda — a member of the previous Zifa board — whom Chiyangwa says is his running mate. Ex-FC Platinum president, Nathan Shoko, has also declared interest in the number two position at Zifa. The race for positions of board members is equally fierce, with Lewis Uriri of Honey and Blackenburg law firm and chairman of Harare giants, Caps United vying for a position on the board. Warriors team manager, Sharif Mussa and retired referee, Wilfred Mukuna are also keen on getting places on the board.
Veteran football administrator and former Northern Region chairman, Francis Zimunya is also set to contest for a post on the Zifa board. Former Warriors midfielder Edzai Kasinauyo has also shown interest in one of the positions in the board.
The vetting of the candidates has been set for Saturday, with the nomination court expected to announce the final list of candidates on November 15 ahead of the elections on December 5.
