The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Referees Committee has suspended referee Owen Manenda from officiating six Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches, covering Matchday 13 to Matchday 18.
In a statement released on Thursday, 29 May, ZIFA cited a “critical officiating error” made by Manenda during a match between Dynamos and CAPS United played on 18 May 2025 at Rufaro Stadium, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
The association said the error “significantly influenced the outcome of the game.” Reads the statement:
Suspension of Match Official Following Review of Dynamos vs CAPS United Fixture
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform all stakeholders and members of the public of the suspension of Referee Owen Manenda.
After careful evaluation of the match played at Rufaro Stadium on 18 May 2025 between Dynamos and CAPS United, it was established that a critical officiating error significantly influenced the outcome of the game.
This conclusion was based on the match commissioner’s report, which highlighted a decision made by the official that contravened the expected standards of performance in top-flight football.
In line with Article 22 of the Referees Code of Conduct, and in pursuit of upholding integrity and accountability within the game, Owen Manenda has been suspended from officiating in Premier League matches from Matchday 13 to Matchday 18 – a total of six (6) matches.
ZIFA reiterates its commitment to fair play, transparency, and the continuous improvement of officiating standards across all levels of the game.
Manenda’s suspension follows a similar disciplinary action taken two weeks earlier, when the ZIFA Referees Committee suspended three other officials, Lawrence Zimondi, Nelson Meke, and Tichaona Mbire, for poor performance during the current Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
Meanwhile, in a statement released on Wednesday, ZIFA reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on all forms of verbal and physical abuse, particularly against match officials.
The association stressed that disagreement with officiating decisions does not justify abusive or disorderly behaviour.
90r3pa