Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THERE is uncertainty in the ZIFA Southern Region following a leadership vacuum created by the axing of the Andrew Tapela-led board.
Andrew Tapela has been booted out as Southern Region Chairperson after 12 teams held an emergency general meeting (EGM) to review the 2022 season and the board’s mandate.
So heated was the meeting held in Bulawayo this Monday that it also claimed the scalp of board vice chairperson Gaylord Mutongwiza as well as Mehluli Thebe, with the only surviving member being Tizireyi Luphahla.
Tapela stands accused of a litany of allegations ranging from running a one-man band to embezzlement of COVID-19 funds and delays in calling for an annual general meeting before the expiry of their term on the 15th of December.
Co-chairpersons of the meeting, which was attended by all clubs save for two who offered their apologies, Blessing Mbwanda and Khumbulani Mbano shed more light.
“The clubs were not happy with the status quo. We tried seeking redress, but we received a backlash in threatening letters. We had to hold this EGM from the review of the season,the clubs accused the leadership of unilaterally imposing a decision to see teams playing in Filabusi which we consider to be under the central region. We also considered having a national league, but it will need a vibrant sponsorship package,” said the co-chairperson, Blessing Mbwanda.
Contacted for comment, Tapela said he is yet to get communication from the board.
Voted into office in October 2018, the board’s four-year mandate expired on the 15th of December, but the board was yet to call for an AGM.
