HARARE – The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has summoned the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) board to formally clarify the nature of allegations recently made against some of its officials.
In a statement released on Saturday by the SRC board of commissioners, chaired by Gerald Mlotshwa, the government body which oversees sports in Zimbabwe, said:
“The SRC has summoned the Zimbabwe Rugby Union Board (‘ZRU’) to clarify, in formal setting, the precise nature of the recent allegations being made against certain officials of ZRU.
“The intention of the meeting is to ascertain if the allegations form a prime facie basis for an enquiry; the outcome of which, in the event, would form the basis for remedial action in terms of ZRU’s constitution. The public will be informed accordingly,” reads the statement.
“There exists sufficient precedent to negate any insinuation to the effect the SRC acts in a partial manner in resolving issues falling within the ambit of its statutory mandate.”
This follows a leaked audio of recently elected ZRU president Losson Mtongwiza blasting members of the national women’s rugby team, the Lady Sables, over unpaid match fees.
In the recording, Mtongwiza is heard telling the players bluntly: “If you are here to be paid, don’t come again! We’re not here to pay people. If we don’t have money, we don’t owe you anything!”
This outburst follows reports that players were not paid for recent matches.
Furthermore, Mtongwiza said payments would only be made upon the return of team equipment.
“We will only give you your money when the kit is returned. No kit, no money,” he said.
In a shocking escalation, Mtongwiza reportedly threatened the players with lifetime bans should they speak out or share the incident publicly.
“If you post anything, write to your friends or go to social media… we will ban you for life. Not for a year. Not two months—LIFE!”
Other than giving players paltry allowances, ZRU also charged US$35 for the green blazers which the players wore on duty.
