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Makwinji Soma-Phiri enters ZIFA race
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Benjani Mwaruwari and Makwinji Soma-Phiri have officially confirmed their candidacy for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency, marking their intent to lead a sport in desperate need of reform. The two former football greats made their announcements last night as the deadline for submission of nominations came to a close.
Mwaruwari, speaking from the United Kingdom, confirmed his commitment to the race, stating, "I am in the race. My papers are in. I am in the race." The former Warriors captain enjoyed a stellar professional career that saw him don the jerseys of top clubs like Grasshoppers in Switzerland, Auxerre in France, and English Premier League sides Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, and Portsmouth. His leadership on and off the field has made him a revered figure in Zimbabwean football.
Soma-Phiri, who had a decorated playing career with local giants Dynamos and Highlanders, has also thrown his hat into the ring for the presidency. A celebrated footballer who lifted over a dozen trophies during his career, including league championships and the ZIFA Cup, Soma-Phiri emphasized his eagerness to contribute to the growth of Zimbabwean football. "I am running for the post of ZIFA president. I filed my papers. I am keen to serve Zimbabwe football. I have also been nominated for the board member's position," said the Harare-based property maintenance manager.
The ZIFA elections, scheduled for January 25, 2025, will undergo a thorough vetting process to determine the eligibility of candidates. The vetted list will be announced on December 23, with the final list of contestants published on January 15.
Joining Mwaruwari and Soma-Phiri in the race are other notable figures from Zimbabwean football's past. James Takavada, a former Soccer Star of the Year, is vying for the vice presidency, while Alois Bunjira, another Soccer Star of the Year recipient, has filed for a board member position. Harrington Shereni, a former Warriors left-back and Dynamos stalwart who also played professionally in Switzerland, has also entered the contest for a board seat.
The upcoming elections have attracted a diverse pool of candidates, including former players, referees, club owners, and administrators from across the football spectrum. This level of interest signals an energized campaign season, with stakeholders hoping to end the turmoil that has plagued Zimbabwean football since Leo Mugabe's tenure ended in 2003.
As anticipation builds, fans and administrators alike are optimistic that the elections could herald a new chapter for Zimbabwean football, with leaders who can restore the sport's credibility and stability.
Mwaruwari, speaking from the United Kingdom, confirmed his commitment to the race, stating, "I am in the race. My papers are in. I am in the race." The former Warriors captain enjoyed a stellar professional career that saw him don the jerseys of top clubs like Grasshoppers in Switzerland, Auxerre in France, and English Premier League sides Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, and Portsmouth. His leadership on and off the field has made him a revered figure in Zimbabwean football.
Soma-Phiri, who had a decorated playing career with local giants Dynamos and Highlanders, has also thrown his hat into the ring for the presidency. A celebrated footballer who lifted over a dozen trophies during his career, including league championships and the ZIFA Cup, Soma-Phiri emphasized his eagerness to contribute to the growth of Zimbabwean football. "I am running for the post of ZIFA president. I filed my papers. I am keen to serve Zimbabwe football. I have also been nominated for the board member's position," said the Harare-based property maintenance manager.
Joining Mwaruwari and Soma-Phiri in the race are other notable figures from Zimbabwean football's past. James Takavada, a former Soccer Star of the Year, is vying for the vice presidency, while Alois Bunjira, another Soccer Star of the Year recipient, has filed for a board member position. Harrington Shereni, a former Warriors left-back and Dynamos stalwart who also played professionally in Switzerland, has also entered the contest for a board seat.
The upcoming elections have attracted a diverse pool of candidates, including former players, referees, club owners, and administrators from across the football spectrum. This level of interest signals an energized campaign season, with stakeholders hoping to end the turmoil that has plagued Zimbabwean football since Leo Mugabe's tenure ended in 2003.
As anticipation builds, fans and administrators alike are optimistic that the elections could herald a new chapter for Zimbabwean football, with leaders who can restore the sport's credibility and stability.
Source - zimlive
