HARARE – The Sports Writers Association of Zimbabwe (SWAZ) and the Sports Journalists Association of Zimbabwe (SPOJA), have officially lodged complaints regarding FC Platinum head coach Norman Mapeza’s conduct during media interviews.
Both associations have expressed concern over Mapeza’s aggressive behavior towards the media, describing it as unacceptable.
In their statements, SWAZ and SPOJA emphasised that Mapeza’s actions should not be tolerated, as they create a hostile environment for journalists simply performing their professional duties.
The complaints come after an incident last Wednesday in Harare, following FC Platinum’s 2-1 win over struggling CAPS United.
During the post match interview, Nehanda Radio journalist Tafadzwa Chigandiwa asked Mapeza whether he was still “worried” about his team’s scoring form, an issue the coach had previously acknowledged in a pre match interview.
Before Chigandiwa could finish his question, Mapeza interrupted, denying he had ever used the word “worried” accusing the journalist of “putting words in my mouth.”
The situation escalated when Mapeza pointed his finger at Chigandiwa, belittling disrespecting and intimidating the reporter.
The former Galatasaray player raised his voice and made dismissive remarks referring to the reporter as a “young man” in a professional environment.
In response to this, SWAZ and SPOJA issued statements condemning Mapeza’s unprofessional conduct.
“The Sports Writers Association of Zimbabwe (SWAZ) writes to formally raise concern over the conduct of FC Platinum head coach Norman Mapeza during the post-match media briefing held on Wednesday at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, following his team’s match against CAPS United,” SWAZ wrote in a statement.
“During the briefing, Coach Mapeza was observed pointing fingers and verbally confronting a journalist, whom he addressed dismissively as a “young man”, before abruptly exiting the press conference.
“SWAZ finds such conduct concerning and inconsistent with the values of mutual respect and professionalism expected in media engagements.
“SWAZ wishes to emphasize that such behaviour can be intimidating and may be perceived as a form of verbal aggression. It creates a hostile environment for journalists who are simply carrying out their professional responsibilities.
“We therefore respectfully call upon both the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and FC Platinum to look into this matter with the seriousness it warrants.
“We urge both institutions to clarify their positions and consider appropriate steps to reaffirm their commitment to ensuring a respectful working relationship between media and football stakeholders.
“Football is a powerful tool for unity and community, and as such, all engagements around it must be guided by the highest standards of professionalism and mutual respect. We trust PSL and FC Platinum will give this matter their urgent attention.”
In a statement, SPOJA said: “The Sports Journalists Association of Zimbabwe (SPOJA) has filed an official complaint with the Premier Soccer League over the behavior of FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza during a post-match press conference on April 30, 2025.
“Mapeza’s reaction to a question from journalist Tafadzwa Chigandiwa was unacceptable, as he engaged in what we believe is media bullying.
“This is not the first time he has conducted himself this way towards a journalist. Such behavior is not only unprofessional but also disrespectful to the media fraternity.
“As a seasoned figure in Zimbabwean football, Mapeza should understand the importance of the media in promoting the sport. SPOJA views Mapeza’s actions as a gross violation of journalistic freedoms and disrespect to media stakeholders.”
This is not the first time Mapeza has been accused of such behavior.
A decade ago, Mapeza was involved in a similar incident, reportedly bulling the late journalist Paul Saul Mundandi, though the matter was later resolved.
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