Murehwa West legislator and Caps United boss, Hon Farai Jere, has voiced strong criticisms against the normalization committee for its failure to upgrade and utilize local stadiums effectively.
Jere expressed his concerns regarding the lack of action from the committee in upgrading local stadiums despite having opportunities to do so.
“My concern when I spoke to the Chairman is, at least after the Malawi incident, they made it very clear that if there are clubs wanting us to visit them, they should apply to CAF. The Chairman is not aware of this, and I cannot apply to FIFA myself. This system needs to be handled by the Association, which in this case is the normalization committee. We have stadiums today that, if approached properly, could be utilized just like what Malawi did,” Jere said.
Jere highlighted that stadiums like Barbourfields and Rufaro are in good condition and could meet CAF requirements if properly presented. He emphasized the need to take proactive measures to ensure local clubs can play home games instead of being forced to play away.
“We have stadiums far better than many others that have been relegated. Why do we have to have our supporters and champions playing away from home? This needs immediate action, taking advantage of what has happened next door,” Jere added.
In a recent appearance before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sports, Arts and Culture, the normalization committee, represented by Chairman Lincoln Mutasa, ZIFA CEO Yvone Manwa, and committee member Nyasha Sanyamandwe, faced criticism for failing to explain their mandate effectively. Mutasa admitted to never having attended a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match, further aggravating the committee.
Chaired by Mhondoro-Mubaira MP Chamu Chiwanza, the hearing concluded with Chiwanza calling for Mutasa’s resignation from the normalization committee. Despite the criticism, Mutasa, whose tenure was recently extended by FIFA, stated he would not resign.
