Harare – The High Court has reserved judgment in an urgent application filed by Yadah Stars Football Club President, Prophet Walter Magaya, challenging his disqualification from contesting the upcoming Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidential elections scheduled for January 25.
Magaya, through his legal team, contested the basis of his disqualification, arguing that he met the stipulated minimum academic requirements outlined in the ZIFA statutes. While the regulations require an Ordinary Level certificate or its equivalent, Magaya submitted a diploma, which his lawyers asserted is a higher qualification. His legal team also emphasized that the issue at hand is not about football administration but the legality of the disqualification process.
They argued that Magaya should have been granted an opportunity to produce the necessary documentation within a reasonable timeframe. However, ZIFA’s legal representative, Professor Lovemore Madhuku, opposed the application, stating that the burden of proof lies with Magaya to provide evidence of his qualifications.
He further argued that the matter falls outside the High Court’s jurisdiction and should be addressed by the arbitration court. Madhuku maintained that there is no legitimate legal basis for the case to be heard at this level.
The High Court’s decision will have significant implications for both Magaya and ZIFA as the election date approaches, potentially setting a precedent on how disputes involving sports governance are handled in Zimbabwe.
