Walter Magaya Barred from ZIFA Presidential Race as High Court Upholds Disqualification
23 January 2025
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By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Harare – High Court Judge Justice Tawanda Chitapi has dismissed Walter Magaya’s application to be reinstated on the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidential ballot, upholding the football body’s decision to disqualify the Yadah FC owner.

The ruling, delivered Thursday morning, brings a decisive end to Magaya’s bid to contest in Saturday’s ZIFA presidential election. Justice Chitapi ruled in favor of ZIFA’s decision, reinforcing the organization’s authority to oversee its electoral processes and enforce its constitutional requirements.

Magaya had argued that he met the minimum educational qualifications outlined in the ZIFA constitution, which require candidates to possess an Ordinary Level (O-Level) certificate or an equivalent qualification. However, the High Court found no grounds to overturn ZIFA’s determination that Magaya did not sufficiently meet the criteria.

The decision is a major setback for Magaya, who had campaigned on a platform of reform and modernization within Zimbabwean football. It also cements ZIFA’s stance on upholding the eligibility requirements for leadership positions within the association.

Justice Chitapi emphasized in his judgment that ZIFA, as a private organization, has the authority to interpret and enforce its own constitution, and that the court could not interfere unless the organization acted unlawfully.

The dismissal of Magaya’s application clears the path for Saturday’s ZIFA elections to proceed without his participation. The elections are expected to draw significant attention as they determine the future leadership of the football body, which has faced calls for reform and greater transparency.

Developments in this story will be closely monitored as reactions pour in from Magaya’s camp, ZIFA officials, and stakeholders in Zimbabwean football. Stay tuned for further updates.