… As ZIFA Election campaign gets into full swing
Game-On Reporter
ZIFA councilors are reportedly cashing in on the upcoming ZIFA elections.
The ZIFA Assembly, which has 78 councilors, make up the electoral college which will vote into office the new Zifa board on January 25.
With the campaign now in full swing, it has been reported that councilors are cashing in on the campaign, demanding payments to meet the aspiring candidates for ZIFA positions.
The councilors are said to be demanding amounts ranging from US$300 to US$500 for a meeting with candidates, while a signature for nomination papers attracted almost the same price.
One of the aspiring candidates who spoke to Game On revealed that most councilors have been making outrageous demands.
“This campaign has been something else, the councilors are making a killing.
“For starters when approached to sign nomination papers the councilors wanted money. They wanted at least US$300.
“Moving into the campaign the councilors are now demanding between US$300 and US$500 for a candidate to meet and address them.
“Councilors from a town or city where you take your campaign to demand reimbursement of transport fares and also demand a bed and breakfast hotel,” said the aspiring candidate.
Gilbert Muponda wanted to vie for the ZIFA presidency post but was forced to withdraw his candidature in December citing financial constraints.
“Meeting these councilors to share your manifesto is very difficult because they demand money.
“We are talking about spending $500 or more per person, so if they are 10, you need US$5000.
“But this is not much because other competing candidates might even splash more than that, so it is very difficult to campaign,” said Muponda.
Another source said: “The upcoming elections could be decided by money.”
On January 25, the ZIFA Assembly will choose the president, his two deputies (one woman) and six ordinary board members.
Nqobile Magwizi, Twine Phiri, Martin Kweza, Philemon Machana, Makwinji Soma Phiri and Marshal Gore are vying for the presidency.
Over 30 candidates are angling for the six board member positions.
These include Brighton “Panjap” Ushendibaba, Kudzai Kadzombe, Xolisani Gwesela, Vincent Chawonza, Edward Mutukwa, Cecilia Gambe, Alice Zeure and Mavis Gumbo
