ZIFA supporters’ liaison officer, Simeon Jamanda has reacted angrily to utterances by Wicknell Chivayo over his sponsorship and pull out threats, saying the “pompous” businessman was free to “go away with his money”.
Chivayo made a dramatic summersault after committing himself to sponsor Zifa and the Warriors to the tune of $250 000 in prize money for making it to Gabon.
The former Motor Action administrator, who has football leadership experience spanning more than 30 years, recalled several benefactors that remained with the national team and lived to their promises even after receiving negative publicity.
“People like Eric Rosen of Motor Action, John Nyamasoka of Rufaro Rovers, Lovemore Gijima Msindo of Fire Batteries, Tanda Tavaruva of Masvingo United, Delma Lupepe of Amazulu and Delta Beverages are some of the sponsors which we can stand up and count for having done a lot for our football,” he said.
Jamanda said Chivayo must know that buying players cellphones would not in any way motivate them, but fulfilling his promises would make a difference.
“Surely, how can someone brag about buying players cellphones? He must know that this is not going to make them happy, but fulfilling his promises is the only thing players would want to hear. Do you think it’s normal that someone gives the coach lunch money amounting to $3 000 while the coach goes for two months without his salary? It’s not normal.”
Jamanda said Zifa should think seriously about what Higher and Tertiary Education minister Jonathan Moyo said, even though Chivayo felt it was an attack on him.
Zifa must not rely on individual sponsors, but if they come, they should respect the nation, not this circus. He must leave the national team alone, simple,” he said.
Chivayo has for the past years been making the headlines for all the wrong reasons, including appearing in court for money laundering.-Standard