THE Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has officially endorsed the heavy sanctions imposed on former Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) president Losson Mtongwiza and former Women’s chairperson Regina Mwanandiwa.
The move follows a lengthy disciplinary process that began with their suspension in May 2025, marking a definitive end to a turbulent chapter in Zimbabwean rugby.
In a scathing statement released yesterday, the SRC confirmed that Mtongwiza has been slapped with a four-year ban from all rugby-related activities.
The commission characterised the disciplinary outcomes as a “significant step” toward restoring the sport’s integrity.
The ZRU Judiciary Committee found both officials guilty of several counts of misconduct.
Mtongwiza was convicted of abuse of office, violation of the ZRU constitution and severe financial mismanagement.
Keep Reading
- Abused female refs take on Zhoya's accomplices
- Defiant SRC digs in on Zifa audit
- Parly, SRC on warpath over Fifa ban
- SRC cornered in Zifa fiasco
These charges stemmed from a period of governance failure that the SRC claims had placed the union on a trajectory toward institutional
collapse.
Mwanandiwa was equally implicated, with the committee finding her guilty of abuse of office regarding the treatment of the Lady Sables players and financial mismanagement, specifically a lack of transparency in handling tour funds.
Bringing the ZRU into disrepute by threatening to withhold player allowances and demanding the return of sponsored kits.
“The SRC’s position on misgovernance and corruption in sport remains unequivocal — there is no place in Zimbabwean sport for leaders who place self-interest above the welfare of athletes, who treat public funds with impunity, [or] who undermine the dignity of those they are entrusted to serve.” The SRC official statement read.
The intervention by the SRC and the subsequent work of the interim management committee have been vindicated by these convictions.
The commission noted that the decisive intervention was necessary, emphasising that accountability is the bedrock of sustainable sport.
The SRC also highlighted that it is currently reviewing the interim management committee’s progress as the union shifts its focus toward preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
While the bans provide a sense of closure, the SRC warned that it may yet institute “further measures” against the duo in accordance with the Sports and Recreation Commission Act.
The fallout began last year when a leaked audio recording captured Mtongwiza berating Lady Sables players over allowance demands.
That incident opened a Pandora’s box of governance issues that eventually led to the suspension of the entire board.
With the disciplinary process concluded, the SRC is calling for unity among stakeholders — players, sponsors, and fans alike — to support the ongoing reform agenda.
The goal remains a professional union that honours its constitutional obligations and represents the nation with pride.