Sports Reporter
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has suspended five match officials for six matches each after investigations found that their officiating decisions materially affected the outcomes of league fixtures.
In a statement on Wednesday, ZIFA said the suspensions followed consideration of reports submitted by match commissioners.
Assistant referee Phikisani Ndlovu was suspended for six Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches, from Matchday 21 to Matchday 26, following his performance during the FC Platinum versus Hunters FC match played at Mandava Stadium on June 27.
In the Northern Region Soccer League, referee Chamunorwa Tapiwa was suspended for six matches from Matchday 17 to Matchday 22 after officiating the Marere FC versus Zambezi G & C FC fixture at Centenary Ground on June 21.
Assistant referee Christian Gumbeze, who officiated the same Northern Region fixture, also received a six-match suspension covering Matchday 17 to Matchday 22.
In the Southern Region Soccer League, referee Graduate Mubobo was suspended for six matches, from Matchday 16 to Matchday 21, following a match officiated at Chinotimba Stadium on June 24.
Assistant referee Praise Mkwevo, who handled the same Southern Region fixture, was also suspended for six matches from Matchday 16 to Matchday 21.
ZIFA said the sanctions were imposed after the officials made incorrect officiating decisions that were considered to have materially influenced the outcomes of the respective matches, in breach of Article 22 of the ZIFA Referees Code of Conduct.
The association said the disciplinary action underscores its commitment to maintaining high standards of officiating, integrity and accountability across all competitions under its jurisdiction.
