Sports Writer
The Premier Netball League (PNL) is facing a backlash after failing to pay match officials for recent bubble events held in Harare and Mutare.
The director of umpires, who is believed to be one of the executive members of PNL, Agnes Chiroodza, blamed poor communication on the mishap.
She also blamed organisational issues for the delay in payment.
In a WhatsApp audio message addressed to the umpires’ group, Chiroodza, expressed her regret over the situation.
Chiroodza also cited lack of proper handover from the outgoing executive which was led by Sarudzai Chapo.
She said the previous executive failed to transfer the league’s assets, including bank cards, on time.
“Good evening, umpires, I apologize to those who officiated the PNL games and did not receive their payments.
“This issue stems from the recent PNL elections.
“The outgoing executive did not complete a proper handover, or takeover, causing the new executive to be unprepared.
“We are working to resolve this matter, and your payments should be sorted out by the end of the week,” Chiroodza said.
She also added that they were looking forward to seeing the former treasurer Kuzivakwashe Mutazu at the elections, but he was not visible.
Indications are that none of the former executives was invited to the elections.
Chiroodza and Tapiwa Chirenda have been running the show and managed to cause havoc in the league with the help of Zina boss Leticia Chipandu.
The two divided the executive members, and those who were sidelined with them have been rewarded with positions in the new executive.
And those who refused to jump to their tunes were booted out.
Claims of misappropriation of funds and lack of accountability have since surfaced.
However, the outgoing executive members have urged PNL founders to make a proper police report on the matter.
The PNL held its elections on April 20, although they were initially scheduled for February.
Only three members from the interim committee remained in the new executive, including Alice Makunura as Secretary General, Melody Mabonda as Vice Secretary General, and Mrs. S.
Sithole as Organizing Secretary and Ellah Gopito as Fixtures Secretary.
New appointments in the league’s executive include Rita Mkandla as Chairperson, Kelvin Mahosi as Vice Chair, and Innocent Ndiya as Public Relations Officer, Aleck Chewe – as committee member together with Tongai Magaya.
The situation has left umpires frustrated and concerned about the league’s future stability.
The PNL must now address these issues to restore trust.
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