Belgium-based ex-Zimbabwe Warriors left-back Cephas Chimedza is strongly advocating for his former teammate Peter Ndlovu to throw his hat into the ring in the upcoming ZIFA elections slated for January 2025.
Chimedza believes Ndlovu, a legendary former national team captain, has what it takes to lead ZIFA effectively.
The 2004 Soccer Star of the Year, referred to as CC, shared his insights during a question and answer interview with Nehanda Radio’s sports reporter, Tafadzwa Chigandiwa (TC).
(TC): Why do you think Peter Ndlovu should run for the ZIFA presidency?
(CC): We have tried candidates from various sectors including politicians, businesspeople, and academics, now it’s time to consider someone with a football background. Peter’s experience as the team manager of Mamelodi Sundowns has prepared him well for a leadership role.
(TC): What if Ndlovu expressed his interest in running, but lacks five O levels, a requirement according to the new constitution. What should be done about this, considering his legendary status?
(CC): Just as former professional players are exempt from certain coaching badge requirements due to their extensive experience, Ndlovu’s decades in football exceed the value of five O Levels.
Ultimately, the focus should be on a candidate’s contributions to our football and their capabilities, not just academic qualifications.
It doesn’t make sense to have someone with 5 O levels but is now a butcher, being considered for a football post ahead of someone with over 30 years in the profession.
If a bank is looking for a manager and someone goes with his impressive engineering papers, I don’t think the bank will consider that person.
(TC): Beyond the presidency, do you believe Ndlovu should take on any other leadership role at ZIFA?
(CC): It’s unfortunate he isn’t already part of our structures. Individuals like him and Moses Chunga are essential for the development of our football.
(TC): How beneficial would it be to involve Ndlovu in ZIFA’s day to day operations, especially given his current relationship with CAF President Patrice Motsepe?
(CC): Peter understands what is vital for the game. He used to sponsor one of the most prestigious youth tournaments in Zimbabwe, demonstrating his commitment to grassroots football.
We have had leaders (at ZIFA) who focus solely on the senior national team, The Warriors, but nurturing young talent is crucial. His current role at Sundowns is a big plus for us.
(TC): What if Peter declines to run for ZIFA president?
(CC): If he chooses not to, we must respect his decision. He has a deep understanding of Zimbabwean football and likely would have considered the implications of holding the office.
In that case, we can only hope for a president who will leave a meaningful legacy. Unfortunately, the new constitution poses challenges for many aspiring candidates.
Among those I believe meet the requirements, I would undoubtedly support Alois Bunjira as a potential leader.
Isn’t Peter’s problem the same as Magaya’s? 5 O’Levels is the sticking point here.