HARARE — Zimbabwe Netball Association President Leticia Chipandu has been suspended from all netball administration roles, the Sports and Recreation Commission said Friday, citing governance failures and findings from an official investigation.
The SRC said the suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in place until the next ZINA elections are held.
“This is in terms of Section 30(1)(c)(i) as read with Section 19(a), (b) and (c) and paragraph 23 of the second schedule of the Sports and Recreation Act (Chapter 25:15),” the SRC said in a statement. “The suspension is as result of the investigations conducted by the SRC on the challenges prevailing within the Zimbabwe Netball Association administration and structures.”
Chipandu’s leadership has faced growing criticism in recent years, with athletes, sponsors and affiliates raising concerns over the direction and integrity of the sport. Allegations include the marginalization of member clubs, the disappearance of sponsorship funds and a lack of support for players.
The sport’s broader challenges have also been linked to claims that individuals without formal roles in the association have been interfering in netball operations and allegedly collecting money from sponsors under questionable circumstances.
Chipandu has led the association for more than 20 years. Calls for her resignation have intensified in recent months.
Efforts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful Friday.
