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ZIFA candidates await eligibility verdict

by Staff reporter
3 hrs ago | Views
The much-anticipated list of candidates eligible to contest the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) board elections will be unveiled today by the Normalisation Committee. This announcement is expected to put to rest speculation surrounding the aspirants who have expressed interest in the upcoming January 25 ballot.

In accordance with ZIFA statutes, all candidates must pass a rigorous eligibility test before being shortlisted for the elections. Over the past two weeks, the ZIFA Ethics Committee, chaired by esteemed legal expert Muchadeyi Masunda, has been conducting the vetting process.

This year's elections have seen an unprecedented level of interest, with a record number of individuals submitting their candidacies for various positions on the ZIFA board. However, only those who meet the criteria will proceed to the election phase, and there is a possibility of disqualifications for failing to meet ethical requirements. These stipulations include ensuring that nominees have no prior convictions for offenses outlined in the electoral code.

The presidency of ZIFA has drawn the interest of at least 10 hopefuls, while approximately 30 candidates are vying for seats on the executive committee as board members. The positions available in the election include the president, two vice presidents, and six ordinary board member roles.

Despite the enthusiasm, the lead-up to the elections has been marred by controversy. Last week, a series of anonymous letters targeting presidential aspirants surfaced, alleging misconduct and attempting to discredit candidates. These developments have raised tensions among stakeholders, but the ZIFA electoral code provides clear guidelines for managing such disputes.

According to the ZIFA constitution, candidates must meet specific qualifications to contest for executive committee positions. They must be Zimbabwean citizens and residents for at least two consecutive years prior to the election and have a minimum of five years' active involvement in football within the last decade. Additionally, candidates must have no prior convictions and must meet educational requirements, including a minimum of five O-Level subjects or equivalent qualifications.

To qualify as president, a candidate must be at least 40 years old. Furthermore, members of the executive committee cannot simultaneously serve on independent committees or act as delegates representing ZIFA members at Congress.

As anticipation builds, today's announcement will clarify the final roster of candidates eligible to steer the future of Zimbabwean football.


Source - The Chronicle