By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has put in place a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the sudden withdrawal of Sheasham FC from the Central Region Division One League (ZCRSL), citing concerns over officiating and administrative irregularities.
The move follows Sheasham FC’s controversial decision to pull out of the league earlier this month citing what it called an uneven playing landscape in the central region league.
It even withdrew its female soccer squad sparking debates among clubs, officials, and fans about governance and transparency within Zimbabwean football.
The ream only reversed its decision when ZIFA intervened and indicated willingness to continue participating in the league under assurances from the mother body.
ZIFA in a statement Friday, said the decision to establish the Commission of Inquiry had been taken during the ZIFA Executive Committee meeting held on 9 October 2025, following recommendations from the Legal and Player Status Committee, which had convened on 8 October 2025.
“Acting under Article 55 of the ZIFA Statutes, the Commission is mandated to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sheasham FC’s withdrawal, assess procedural compliance, and recommend measures to enhance fairness and transparency in league management,” read part of the statement
Commission Members:
Mr. Ringisai Kudzanai Hillario Mapondera – Chairperson, Legal and Governance Expert
Mr. Jabulani Mpofu – Athletic Director, Lupane State University
Ms. Morelet S. Mathema – Vice President (Technical & Development), Zimbabwe Volleyball Association
Mr. Andrew Pamire – Former Referee
Mandate of the Commission:
ZIFA further noted that, the Commission will investigate Sheasham FC’s withdrawal from the Central Region Division One League, review related complaints and the league’s responses, and determine if all internal remedies were exhausted.
It will submit findings and recommendations to ZIFA within seven working days, aiming to enhance fairness, transparency, and accountability in league management.
ZIFA emphasized that the inquiry is a corrective and reformative measure aimed at restoring trust, integrity, and accountability in football administration.
The association urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully with the Commission to ensure a transparent and constructive outcome.
The football community will be closely watching the proceedings, which could set important precedents for handling disputes and governance issues in Zimbabwean football leagues.
Meanwhile the Central Region is yet to respond to Dulibadzimu United FC which played its match against the returned Sheasham FC under protest citing a short notice.
After Sheasham FC withdrawal the CRSL wrote to clubs notifying them of the withdrawal but failed to do the same after the readmission.
Dulibadzimu officials said they had sent off their key players after learning from CRSL the development.