By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has advised Sheasham FC to remain in the Central Region Soccer League until its grievances have been amicably resolved.
Sheasham withdrew from the league, citing concerns over unfair competition and poor officiating within the ZIFA Central Region Soccer League.
In a statement, the ZIFA Media Department acknowledged receipt of correspondence pertaining to Sheasham FC’s alleged withdrawal.
ZIFA said“Sheasham Football Club remains a member of the Central Region Soccer League until the issue has been amicably resolved through the proper processes.”
The soccer body underscored the importance of adhering to established procedures when addressing grievances or disputes within regional leagues.
“The Association reminds all regional affiliates that any grievances or disputes arising within their jurisdictions should be addressed through the established legal and procedural frameworks of their respective leagues,” the release reads.
Furthermore, ZIFA stressed that escalation of matters to the national association should only occur after all mechanisms at the regional level have been fully exhausted.
“Only after all regional mechanisms have been fully exhausted should matters be escalated to the Association for further consideration,” the statement noted.
Soccer followers in the Central Region were concerned about Sheasham withdrawal which showed there was something amiss with the running of soccer in the Region.
The chairman of Sheasham Reginald Chidawanyika addressed a press conference in Gweru Monday where he chronicled his team’s difficult season where it’s matches were interfered with allegedly by newcomers Hardrock.
He mentioned violence that rocked their Bata homeground allegedly caused by an individual later seen paying $700 to match officials when Sheasham met Grain Tigers in Kwekwe.
In a lengthy press conference aired live on Sheasham FC Facebook page hidawanyika also alleged Zifa in Harare had not responded to its appeals against the activity of Hardrock.
The Central Region administration based in Gweru had also paid a deaf ear to Sheasham appeals, a development most feel was influenced by corruption.
On Monday Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi said developments in the Midlands were under spotlight.