Abel Ndooka
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ASPIRING ZIFA president Twine Phiri says no amount of money can lure him out of the race for the ZIFA presidency.
The veteran football administrator is one of the six figures eying for the apex post in the January 25 ZIFA elections.
He will square up against Philemon Machana and Martin Kweza as well as Makwinji Soma-Phiri, Marshall Gore and Nqobile Magwizi.
Amid speculation that some candidates might pull out of the race, despite making it to the ballot papers, the former CAPS United owner and PSL chairman said he will not be swayed by anything.
Phiri said this while officially launching his candidature at a significantly subscribed event held at a Harare hotel on Saturday afternoon.
“I might not have money but I am bringing my passion and experience into the game to the table,” said Phiri.
“I can assure all of you stakeholders, including councillors, members of the media and football fans that I will not be bribed out of the race.
“I can tell you that I faced trials and tribulations when I acquired CAPS United Football Club from CAPS Pharmaceuticals back in 2002.
“I was beaten up by the club supporters for appointing Charles Mhlauri as the coach.
“The fans didn’t like him for several reasons, but I saw a lot of potential in him.
“So, I was beaten up at a match at Gwanzura and I could have lost my eyesight. But I stood firm for what I believed was right and at the end, everyone was smiling.
“I cannot be swayed by anything to take my eyes on the ball. That’s what I am saying.”
Phiri said Zimbabweans should trust him with their football because he has done well in leadership positions in the game.
He transformed the Green Machine into a force when winning over 15 trophies during the time he was the sole owner of the club between 2002 and 2008.
The titles included the BP Cup, CBZ FA Cup, Buddie Cup, BancABC trophy as well as back-to-back league crowns between 2004-2005.
“I acquired CAPS United from CAPS Pharmaceuticals as a mere 27-year-old in 2002 and transformed the team into a huge giant they are now through sound corporate governance when I was the sole owner from 2002 to 2008.
“I also became the PSL chairman in the 2010s and was able to bring back Delta Corporation, through their Castle Lager brand, to sponsor the game after they had left in 1997.
“I also convinced different other sponsors to partner the league and we saw the coming in of the ZNA Charity Shield, Mbada Diamonds Cup, Easycall Cup and the Chibuku Super Cup coming on.
“I will do exactly that when elected to lead ZIFA and football will never be the same again.”
daglous masveta
