Zimpapers to close-shop on Saturdays?

The appointment of Delma Lupepe, a devout Seventh-Day Adventists as Zimpapers board chairman this week has raised questions whether the stable will be opened for business on Saturdays. Lupepe's fanaticism when it comes to his Christian beliefs have always been overwhelmingly apparent.

This comes in the context of former Zimbabwe champions Amazulu owned by Lupepe being relegated from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) in 2005, at the insistence of Motor Action owner Eric Rosen, after they refused on play on Saturday due to their Sabbath religious beliefs.

As a Seventh-day Adventist, Lupepe observes Saturday as the Sabbath, a day he spends in worship and fellowship, avoiding "common" work, as the Bible commands.

Amazulu Football Club had a policy of not playing on Saturdays. They contend that Saturday is the Sabbath appointed by God as a day of rest. And in accordance with their beliefs, Amazulu refused to fulfil a Saturday fixture.

"We will not play on the Sabbath because it is contrary to the will of God," Lupepe was quoted by ANN on Nov. 7.

"We can't change our position or compromise because we believe the Bible is valid and we believe in the Ten Commandments. We are prepared to leave the league permanently if necessary."

But the PSL disciplinary committee ruled that the club be suspended indefinitely from the league.

Zimpapers titles that are on duty on Saturdays are The Sunday Mail and Sunday News.