Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Onward Gangata
KWEKWE United’s eagerly anticipated maiden season in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has hit a major stumbling block, with revelations that the club is struggling to settle outstanding salaries and winning bonuses owed to its players.
Sources close to the club have revealed that the majority of players who featured for The Gold Boys last season are still awaiting payment, with debts ranging from US$1 000 to US$5 000 per player.
This financial turmoil has cast a dark cloud over the team’s preparedness for the upcoming season, with concerns mounting about their ability to attract new talent and mount a competitive challenge in the top-flight.
Despite their promotion to the PSL, Kwekwe United have been eerily silent on their pre-season plans and new signings, fuelling speculation about the club’s stability and readiness for the season ahead.
Players who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed the financial impasse, highlighting the urgent need for the club’s hierarchy to address the crisis and ensure a smooth start to their PSL campaign.
“We are yet to get our dues from last season,” said one player.
“Almost everyone is owed something by the club. The amounts range depending on contracts and other variables but in general, we have players who are owed between US$1 000 and US$5 000.
“It’s so heart-breaking that the club owes us a lot of money and has not made any efforts to address the situation.
“The owner (Phil Makekera) has been evasive; he doesn’t want to meet us to discuss how they intend to pay us off. The way things are going, I doubt if the club can compete in the Premiership.”
While Kwekwe United are still basking in the glory of their promotion-winning season in the Zifa Central Region Soccer League, the club is facing a mass exodus of its top talent. Several key players who propelled the team to success are reportedly on their way out.
Captain David Chipo, a dominant force on the pitch, is being courted by Premiership clubs, while striker Elton Njini is said to be joining Triangle. Goalkeeper Elton Nechiware, meanwhile, is trying his luck at Central Region Soccer League side Hardrock.
Other players who have been spotted at Hardrock’s trials include Nesbert Gwede, Last Nyilenda and Innocent Mundinga.
When reached for comment, Kwekwe United chairperson, Elvis Shumba, promised to respond later saying he was in a meeting.
