Exciting Zifa campaign season beckons

Eddie Chikamhi

Zimpapers Sports Hub

ZIFA presidential elections aspirant, Marshall Gore says he is now set to engage the second gear of his campaign after getting the thumbs up from the Ethics Committee to contest the forthcoming poll. 

The former Team Zimbabwe-UK chief executive officer debunked speculation about the issues surrounding his residency, which many thought could be a hindrance in his ambition to lead the association. 

The new constitution stipulates that a candidate must “have been continuously resident in Zimbabwe for a period of two years preceding the date of election.” 

Before his return home, Gore had been formally based in the UK for two decades since 1998. 

“I am fully back in Zimbabwe. The fact that my papers were approved means I met the criteria. So, it’s not correct to say I am UK-based,” he said. 

Gore is one of the six candidates that passed the ZIFA eligibility test ahead of the January 25 election. The others are former ZIFA board member Philemon Machana, business executive Nqobile Magwizi, ZIFA Northern Region chairman Martin Kweza, former Premier Soccer League chairman Twine Phiri and ex-footballer Makwinji Soma-Phiri. 

It promises to be an exciting campaign period after the festive holidays as the candidates position themselves for the hot seat. 

Regarded by many as a neutral, Gore said his mission is to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and excellence within Zimbabwean football, engaging stakeholders, and inspiring a new generation of leaders and players. 

“I am truly grateful for all the messages of support and prayers — they have been an incredible source of encouragement. A heartfelt thank you also goes to the stakeholders who supported our nomination and made this possible. 

“As we move closer to the election date, the journey ahead calls for even greater collaboration and support,” he said. 

Gore’s campaign emphasises collaboration, inclusivity and unity and has been calling on stakeholders to add their voice into his manifesto. 

“We have no doubt that our vision offers transformative solutions for the development of football in Zimbabwe. Together, we can build a future where our football thrives at every level — from grassroots to professional leagues. 

“We are eager to hear your ideas and welcome your involvement. Whether through volunteering, sharing resources, or spreading the message, your support will make a significant difference,” he said. 

In the next few weeks the ZIFA election campaigns should be going full throttle, targeting mostly the 78 councillors that will cast their ballots on January 25.