Zimpapers Logo

Trevor Carelse Juul

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
ASPIRING Zifa president Trevor Carelse-Juul resubmitted his nomination papers with his representatives last night boldly declaring that it would be shocking if the electoral committee disqualified  him.

Zifa confirmed that Carelse-Juul submitted his papers, but said his eligibility would only be known on Friday after the association’s electoral committee’s meeting.

“Some submissions of papers were made today as the electoral committee had ordered some candidates to submit supplementary information,” said Zifa communications manager Xolisani Gwesela last night.

“The papers will be presented to the electoral committee which will discuss and decide on the credibility of the candidates at their next meeting on November 13 before the full list of eligible candidate is released on November 15. This is in accordance with the election roadmap,” he said.

Carelse-Juul’s agent Stanely Makombe, who submitted the papers on behalf of the South African-based businessman, was upbeat.

“We managed to submit the papers that they wanted. We provided the police clearance, provided the basis that satisfy the residence issue that they also raised,  and as far as we’re concerned, we’ve met all the requirements and it’ll be shocking if he’s disqualified,” said Makombe.

He questioned the Zifa constitution saying it was not in line with the country’s constitution.

“Our national constitution recognises dual citizenship so it doesn’t matter whether one has been using an American passport. Carelse-Juul is a Zimbabwean citizen by birth and we feel we’ve no basis responding to issues raised outside the context of the law,” said Makombe.

It is believed the Carelse-Juul camp submitted a telephone bill and title deeds for some property as proof of residence.

“I’m very optimistic that logic will prevail,” Makombe said.

The other three aspiring Zifa bosses include businessman Philip Chiyangwa, former Dynamos and Premier Soccer League secretary-general  Leslie Gwindi as well as former Warriors’ defender and 1984 Soccer Star of the Year James Takavada.

Their papers have been approved by the electoral committee chairman Justice Selo Nare.