The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has bared its fangs, suspending three Premier Soccer League referees for poor officiating in recent high-profile matches. The decision, announced on 15 May 2025, follows a thorough review by the ZIFA Referees Committee, which found the match officials’ performances to be well below the standards expected at the top level.
Lawrence Zimondi, who officiated the fiery Highlanders vs CAPS United clash at Barbourfields Stadium on 13 April, and the Ngezi Platinum vs Yadah fixture at Baobab Stadium on 30 April, has been suspended from Matchday 11 to Matchday 14. His handling of key moments in both matches came under heavy criticism from both sets of fans and technical benches, prompting ZIFA to take action.
Nelson Meke finds himself in similar trouble after his performance during the Scotland vs Herentals encounter at Rufaro Stadium on 1 May 2025. Meke has also been handed a four-week suspension, ruling him out of officiating from Matchday 11 to Matchday 14. Sources say Meke’s questionable calls during the game disrupted the flow and fairness of the contest.
The longest suspension was reserved for Tichaona Mbire, who has been sidelined for six weeks (Matchday 11 to 16) following a highly criticized outing during the MWOS vs Manica Diamonds match played on 1 May at Ngoni Stadium. Match footage and post-match analysis highlighted several glaring errors, leading to an official complaint from one of the clubs.
In a strongly worded statement, ZIFA reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the league. “All match officials are expected to uphold the highest levels of professionalism, consistency, and competence. Where those standards are not met, corrective action will be taken.”
The suspensions come at a critical point in the Premier League season, and ZIFA’s decision has sparked debate across the football fraternity. While some believe it’s a step in the right direction, others say more needs to be done to improve referee training and support.
What is clear, however, is that ZIFA has shown it still has teeth—and this time, the bite has left three referees benched.
