Omega Sibanda
Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
ZIFA has appointed a six-member ad hoc disciplinary committee to deal with Zimbabwe Women’s Soccer League vice-chairperson Cecilia Gambe, who allegedly invaded the pitch and abused a referee during a league match in Mutare in May.
The committee is chaired by Zifa vice-president Omega Sibanda, with regional chairpersons as members.
Gambe allegedly invaded the pitch during a match pitting Mutare City and How Mine on May 8 and abused referee Brighton Chimene.
The latest development comes after a serious concern raised by Sport and Recreation Minister Makhosini Hlongwane that Zifa was dragging its feet in disciplining the Mutare-based official.
Hlongwane raised his concerns at a press conference in Harare following violence that erupted at Barbourfields Stadium at the end of a league match between Highlanders and Chicken Inn last Sunday.
The Minister said Zifa’s failure to punish football leaders like Gambe had sent the wrong message that such lawlessness was acceptable in domestic football.
Gambe charged at Chimene, accusing him of bad officiating, but the Women’s League official is still to be sanctioned by Zifa while Mutare City Rovers were penalised $2,000 by the PSL’s disciplinary committee for the behaviour of the fans.