ZVISHAVANE – Former champions FC Platinum have reiterated their commitment to fostering close, respectful, and transparent relationships with the media, the club said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
According to the club, this is part of an ongoing effort to maintain a professional environment for journalists.
This follows an incident involving the club’s head coach Norman Mapeza, and Nehanda Radio journalist Tafadzwa Chigandiwa on May 5 during a post match interview at Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
Chigandiwa asked Mapeza whether he remained “worried” about his team’s scoring form, a concern the coach had previously addressed in an interview.
However, Mapeza interrupted Chigandiwa before he could finish the question, denying he had ever used the word “worried” and accusing the journalist of “putting words in my mouth.”
The situation escalated when Mapeza pointed his finger at Chigandiwa, belittling and intimidating the reporter.
The former Galatasaray player, raised his voice and made dismissive remarks, referring to the journalist as a “young man” in a professional environment.
Following the misunderstanding, Zimbabwe’s sports associations, SPOJA and SWAZ, lodged formal complaints over Mapeza’s conduct.
In response, the Zvishavane based club, sponsored by FBC Holdings, has released a statement, highlighting its dedication to properly work hand in glove with the media going forward.
“In the aftermath of the widely publicized post-match interview at Rufaro Stadium on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, FC Platinum directed Head Coach, Norman Mapeza, to collaborate with sports journalist Tafadzwa Chigandiwa to amicably resolve the situation.
“A meeting was convened in Harare on Monday, May 5, 2025, under the facilitation of Munyaradzi Hwengwere, the lead consultant at Mejrkh Communications and Media Advisory.
“During this meeting, Coach Mapeza expressed his regret regarding the incident and committed to fostering a positive relationship with all journalists covering FC Platinum matches.
“He encouraged sports journalists to attend all FC Platinum games and, when feasible, to submit their questions in advance.
“Both parties agreed to work more closely together in the future, aiming for a conflict-free relationship. They committed to pursuing a collaborative partnership moving forward. Mr Chigandiwa, pledged to continue his coverage of FC Platinum’s matches,” FC Platinum wrote.
“The club is dedicated to maintaining transparent and respectful communication channels with the media, understanding the crucial role that journalists play in promoting the sport and engaging with fans.
“FC Platinum will enforce the media policy aimed at streamlining communication and ensuring that all interactions between the club and journalists are conducted in a professional and respectful manner.
“This policy includes guidelines for post-match interviews, press conferences, and access to players and coaching staff.
“FC Platinum wishes to reaffirm its deep respect for the media and to ensure open access. The incident at Rufaro Stadium is sincerely regretted, and all necessary measures are being implemented to prevent a recurrence.”
FC Platinum is set to square off against Bulawayo giants Highlanders in a tricky encounter away at Barbourfields Stadium this coming Sunday.
