Jere, Ndebele face tough questions

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Writer

As the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidential elections draw near, two prominent candidates, Farai Jere and Ndebele Kennedy, are facing intense scrutiny from football fans. The duo, who have been instrumental in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), are being questioned about their track record, integrity, and vision for the future of Zimbabwean football.

One of the most pressing concerns is the lack of permanent offices for the PSL, despite being in existence for 30 years. Jere and Ndebele have been accused of failing to transform the PSL during their tenure, with many wondering what they have done to assist in the building of permanent offices.

"Farai Jere and Ndebele Kennedy have been part of the PSL for years, but what have they achieved? We need new blood and fresh ideas to take our football forward," said Tafadzwa Moyo, a Dynamos fan.

Furthermore, there are questions about a piece of land that was allegedly commissioned or groundbreaking for PSL, with many wondering who will develop the land now that Jere and Ndebele are eyeing the ZIFA presidency.

Another controversy surrounding Ndebele is the renting of PSL offices in Bulawayo, which has been ongoing for 10 years. The fact that Ndebele, as CEO, has been authorizing rentals that come to himself has raised eyebrows, with many accusing him of a serious conflict of interest and questionable integrity.

"I'm tired of these old guards who only care about lining their pockets. We need leaders who are passionate about football and willing to make sacrifices for the good of the game," said Melusi Khumalo, a Highlanders fan.

There are also concerns about the financial management of the PSL, with many wondering where the money collected at gates (6%) and fines goes to. Highlanders, one of the top teams in the league, has paid a whopping $137,000 in two seasons, yet the money won by league champions is a mere $100,000, which is not even enough to fulfill their fixtures in a season.

"Jere and Kennedy have had their chance, now it's time for someone else to take the reins. We need a president who will bring transparency and accountability to ZIFA," said Tendai Machingura, a Caps United fan.

As the ZIFA presidential elections heat up, Jere and Ndebele will have to address these tough questions and convince football fans that they have the vision, integrity, and leadership skills to take Zimbabwean football to the next level.