Phiri and Machana Take ZIFA Election Dispute to Court of Arbitration for Sport

The battle over the recent ZIFA presidential election results has escalated, with losing candidates Twine Phiri and Philemon Machana turning to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in an effort to overturn the election outcome. The pair alleges that third-party interference, led by controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, undermined the legitimacy of the election held on January 25, 2025.

Phiri and Machana claim that Chivayo exerted undue influence by promising substantial material incentives to councillors who formed the electoral college, in exchange for supporting the victorious candidate, Nqobile Magwizi. According to the allegations, Chivayo promised brand new vehicles to voters who backed Magwizi, along with a US$10 million pledge to ZIFA, contingent on Magwizi’s presidency.

The appeal from Phiri and Machana seeks the following declarations and orders:

1. A ruling that the ZIFA presidential election was marred by third-party interference, rendering the poll illegitimate.
2. A declaration that Magwizi’s election as president of ZIFA is null and void.
3. An order requiring ZIFA to conduct a fresh election for president within 30 days of the ruling.

Magwizi emerged victorious in the election, securing 61 votes—approximately 80% of the total—cementing his place as the next ZIFA president. However, the allegations of vote manipulation have raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.

In addition to the promise of cars, Chivayo reportedly made public declarations on his social media platforms, further reinforcing his support for Magwizi’s candidacy. His promise of US$10 million for ZIFA’s development, conditioned on Magwizi’s election, added a layer of controversy to the already contentious race.

As the dispute unfolds, the football community is left to speculate on the potential ramifications for both ZIFA and the wider sporting landscape. While the Court of Arbitration for Sport is set to review the case, the issue of third-party influence in the electoral process continues to cast a shadow over Magwizi’s victory.