ZFA Polls Set for Saturday in Pemba

Tanzania Daily News (Dar es Salaam)

Issa Yussuf

28 April 2011

Zanzibar — THE current leadership of the Zanzibar Football Association (ZFA) is widely expected to be voted back in office, when the association holds its general elections in Pemba on Saturday.

However, the Chairperson of the elections committee Abdughani Msoma has expressed his disappointment with boycott of contestants.

“Preparations for the elections are complete, but unfortunately no body is challenging the current ZFA leaders. This is a disappointment, but my work is to make sure that ZFA constitution is observed,” said Msoma.

Those defending the position in the election are Ali Fereji Tamim (President), Haji Ameir (vice-president, Unguja) and Ali Mohamed Ali (vice-president, Pemba).

According to Msoma, about 55 electorates who include ZFA officials at district levels are expected to vote in the elections to be held at Gombani Stadium hall.

Similar elections were held in December, 2010, but later nullified due to irregularities including violation of the elections regulations. Those against the elections want the current ZFA leadership to stay away because of what they described as failure to improve soccer in the islands for the past 20 years.

But Msoma argues that the only way for changes is through democratic procedures. Msoma estimated that between 1.5m/- and 2m/- would be spent for the elections. He appealed to those threatening to go to court to challenge the elections not to do so.

“If we are serious and not being driven by anybody, we should abide by our constitution and follow process for changes,” he said.

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