Harare lawyer Lonias Rozvi Majoni has taken his concerns over integrity issues in Zimbabwean football to Parliament, following the alleged inaction of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and Premier Soccer League (PSL). Majoni lodged formal complaints with ZIFA and the PSL on November 2, 2026, but claims they failed to acknowledge receipt within the stipulated seven-day period. The seven-day response window expired on November 9, prompting Majoni to seek legislative intervention.
Majoni's petition, submitted to the Clerk of Parliament on November 12, seeks the involvement of the Portfolio Committee on Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, as well as relevant legal affairs committees. He argues that certain aspects of the matter fall within the State's jurisdiction, while maintaining that football's internal disciplinary and governance processes should remain independent. The petition cites several reported controversies in domestic football, including allegations of match-fixing and disputes over player registrations.
The lawyer emphasised that the allegations remain unverified and that no individual or club should be presumed guilty. However, he wants Parliament to examine possible gaps in Zimbabwe's laws relating to sports manipulation, corruption, beneficial ownership transparency, and protection of whistleblowers. Majoni also called for greater accountability from State institutions, including the Sports and Recreation Commission, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, and the police.
Majoni stressed that his approach is not intended to trigger FIFA intervention or undermine football's autonomy. He stated that he has taken these steps in good faith and in the public interest to exhaust all local remedies before escalating the matter internationally, which could carry adverse consequences. The 30-day response period granted to ZIFA and the PSL expires on December 2, 2026.
If the internal remedies fail, Majoni indicated that he would consider approaching FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) through their established channels. However, he said he would not support any suspension of ZIFA or freezing of football development funds, arguing that such measures would ultimately hurt players and clubs. Majoni's petition calls for constructive engagement and legislative reforms to strengthen accountability and restore public confidence in Zimbabwean football.
The petition follows a series of reported controversies in domestic football, including an alleged approach to CAPS United goalkeeper Washington Arubi to influence teammates. Majoni's actions have sparked a renewed focus on governance and integrity in Zimbabwean football, with many stakeholders eagerly awaiting Parliament's response to the petition. The outcome could have significant implications for the sport in the country.
As the situation unfolds, football fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Parliament responds to Majoni's petition and whether it leads to meaningful reforms in the sport. With the December 2 deadline for ZIFA and PSL responses looming, the pressure is mounting on the football governing bodies to address the concerns raised by Majoni and take concrete steps to restore public trust.
Key points
- The petition seeks legislative intervention to address integrity concerns in Zimbabwean football.
- Majoni wants Parliament to examine gaps in laws relating to sports manipulation and corruption.
- The outcome could have significant implications for the sport in Zimbabwe.
