By Tatenda Gondo
As the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) prepares for a crucial leadership vote, the spotlight falls on two contenders vying for the Presidential post: the incumbent Thabani Gonye and challenger Ringisai Mapondera. Both men were part of the Zimbabwe delegation at the Paris Olympic Games Gonye as ZOC President, and Mapondera as Chef de Mission. But that’s where the similarities end.
Having reviewed both manifestos, the contrast could not be starker.
Gonye’s manifesto feels more like a recycled version of Kirsty Coventry’s International Olympic Committee pitch than a grounded plan for Zimbabwean sport. There’s a mention of Artificial Intelligence, among other lofty buzzwords, but nothing that speaks directly to the structural and operational challenges facing the ZOC. He even throws in the vague promise of “athlete performance” whatever that means in a document that should outline how, not just what.
Mapondera, on the other hand, brings substance. His manifesto highlights practical, much needed strategies: engaging the Zimbabwean diaspora for sports development, revitalizing the Local Olympic Centre, and positioning the ZOC as a hub of excellence. It’s vision backed by action points, not platitudes.
But manifestos are only half the story. Track records speak louder.
Since Gonye took over from Admire Masenda, the ZOC’s fortunes have taken a nosedive especially financially. Questions have swirled around transparency and governance. A glaring example Gonye reportedly conducted the interview for the current ZOC CEO on his own. Where was the HR department? Who else vetted this appointment? Why was due process thrown out the window?
And it doesn’t stop there. Under his watch, one employee has seemingly thrived at the expense of others a situation so skewed, it’s now being used as a campaign tool by individuals with questionable reputations. Affiliates should take note when favoritism and cronyism are normalized, accountability suffers.
Perhaps the most embarrassing episode came after the Paris Games. The team only received their allowances months two months ago and no one within the leadership structure has offered a coherent explanation for the delay. That’s not just a governance issue; it’s a moral failure.
The ZOC Presidential election is not just about personalities. It’s about performance, integrity, and a clear plan for rebuilding trust in the organization.
The vote is in the hands of the affiliates. The question is will they hit the target or shoot wide?
