Scandal Erupts Ahead of ZIFA Elections: Vote-Buying and ZANU PF Interference Allegations Surface

By Sports Reporter | ZimEye | Zimbabwean football has been thrust into controversy as allegations of vote-buying and political interference threaten to derail the upcoming Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) elections. Businessman Wicknell Chivhayo and Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation, Tino Machakaire, are at the center of the storm, with claims that their actions violate FIFA’s strict regulations on governance and non-interference.

Chivhayo’s Controversial ZANU PF-Backed Promises

Wicknell Chivhayo, a ZANU PF party boasting businessman, has openly declared his support for Nqobile Magwizi, a candidate for ZIFA’s presidency. In a public announcement, Chivhayo promised to gift Magwizi a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser valued at $200,000 should he win the presidency. Even more strikingly, Chivhayo revealed that all ZIFA board members and councilors who support Magwizi’s candidacy will each receive brand-new vehicles as a reward. He further pledged a staggering $10 million for football development if Magwizi assumes the presidency.

However, what has sparked widespread outcry is Chivhayo’s admission that these gifts and funds are being provided through Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU PF party. By tying the promises of financial and material rewards to a political party, Chivhayo has raised serious questions about the independence of ZIFA and the integrity of its election process.

Under FIFA’s Code of Ethics (Article 19), any form of vote-buying or undue influence is strictly prohibited. By openly offering material benefits—backed by a political party—Chivhayo’s actions undermine the impartiality of the elections and threaten to drag Zimbabwean football into political controversy.

ZANU PF Government Interference

The involvement of ZANU PF in the ZIFA elections doesn’t stop there. Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire issued a statement publicly endorsing Nqobile Magwizi, praising his contributions to grassroots football development and expressing confidence in his ability to lead ZIFA. While Machakaire framed his remarks as personal support, FIFA statutes are clear: any government interference in the affairs of national football associations is prohibited. Articles 14 and 19 of FIFA’s statutes mandate that member associations like ZIFA remain autonomous and free from external political influence.

The intersection of politics and football governance is a longstanding issue in Zimbabwe, and this latest episode underscores the ongoing