By A Correspondent
In a bold and controversial statement, Zanu PF Youth League deputy secretary for Commissariat, Taurai Kandishaya, recently declared that the ruling party has the power to influence not just political elections but even sports-related contests in Zimbabwe.
Kandishaya made these remarks on Saturday, taking a jab at the perceived factionalism within the party while asserting Zanu PF’s dominance in every form of election in the country.
Kandishaya’s comments were made with a dose of sarcasm. He remarked, “If you think there are fights within ZANU PF then call for an election and see what is called unity of purpose. Even School Development Committee Elections, even burial society elections. ZANU PF aligned candidate will win.”
He continued by suggesting that the ruling party’s influence extends far beyond the political arena, even joking about the upcoming ZIFA (Zimbabwe Football Association) elections set for January 2025, saying, “Handina kumbotaura zveZIFA ini” (“I haven’t even mentioned ZIFA”).
The statement has sparked concern among critics, particularly within the sports community, about the potential politicization of the ZIFA elections, which traditionally are independent of government influence.
Kandishaya’s comments underscore Zanu PF’s long-standing tendency to assert control over various spheres of Zimbabwean society, a trend that has raised questions about the independence of institutions and democratic processes in the country.
While Kandishaya’s words may have been delivered with sarcasm, the implication is clear: Zanu PF is prepared to ensure the success of its aligned candidates in all forms of elections, even those unrelated to politics.
The ruling party’s self-proclaimed ability to sway results in such a wide range of areas—from school boards to sports associations—points to the significant power it wields over Zimbabwe’s institutional framework.
The forthcoming ZIFA elections, in particular, could serve as a battleground for political maneuvering, with many fearing that the governing party’s influence may undermine the autonomy of football administration in the country.
Critics worry that such political interference could harm the integrity of football and other areas traditionally governed by non-partisan bodies.