Walter Magaya Slapped With ZIFA Exclusion Application
By Sports Reporter | Harare, Zimbabwe — A formal objection has been raised against the nomination of Walter Magaya for the presidency of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA). The objection, submitted to the ZIFA Electoral Committee and Ethics and Integrity Committee Chairperson, cites multiple criminal, civil, and disciplinary allegations that question Magaya’s ethical, legal, and financial suitability for the role.
Criminal Matters: Pending and Past Cases
The letter highlights a series of unresolved criminal charges and past convictions that could potentially disqualify Mr. Magaya. These include:
1. Pending Criminal Charges: Walter Magaya faces charges under Section 81 of the Income Tax Act for alleged tax violations. The matter, State v Walter Magaya (CRB1848/19), is scheduled for hearing at the Rotten Row Magistrates Court on 21 January 2024.
2. Asset Forfeiture Investigation: In the case State v Walter Magaya (PP’s Ref 1193/22), financial mismanagement and potential illicit activities are under scrutiny by the Asset Forfeiture Department.
3. Conviction Under Medicines Control Act: Magaya, through his company Magaya Aretha Medical Private Limited, was convicted and fined US$700 for promoting a false “cure” for HIV and AIDS. This act was deemed unethical and dangerous to public health.
Civil Matters: Financial Instability and Property Seizure
The objection also outlines civil cases that question Magaya’s financial stability and capacity to lead ZIFA responsibly:
• In the case Get Bucks Microfinance Bank Ltd v Walter Magaya (HCHC657/24), the High Court ordered the sale of Magaya’s property on 9 October 2024 to settle a significant debt of US$420,140.72.
This ruling underscores his inability to meet financial obligations, a critical concern for someone vying to manage ZIFA’s finances and affairs.
FIFA Disciplinary Sanction: Yadah Football Club
Further complicating Magaya’s candidacy is a disciplinary sanction imposed by FIFA on 6 August 2024.
• FIFA banned Yadah Football Club, owned and chaired by Magaya, from registering international players due to violations of FIFA club licensing rules.
The objection emphasizes that, as owner and leader of Yadah FC, Magaya bears ultimate responsibility for governance lapses. The precedent of FIFA holding leaders accountable for ethical breaches, as seen in the Samson Siasia case, has been cited to stress Magaya’s ethical shortcomings.
Implications for ZIFA Leadership
The objection raises concerns about Magaya’s integrity, financial management, and accountability—critical traits required for ZIFA’s top leadership role. The letter suggests that his history of legal troubles and FIFA sanctions reflects poorly on his ability to restore credibility to the country’s football administration.
What’s Next?
The ZIFA Ethics and Integrity Committee is expected to assess the merit of these objections before determining whether Walter Magaya’s candidacy will proceed. Football stakeholders and fans alike will be watching closely as this controversy unfolds, given ZIFA’s ongoing efforts to clean up its image and improve governance.
Reporter’s Note
Walter Magaya, a prominent businessman and football club owner, has yet to comment on the allegations. The developments surrounding his candidacy will likely spark debates over ethics, governance, and the future of Zimbabwean football.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Related
#Walter #Magaya #Slapped #ZIFA #Exclusion #Application #ZimEye
