-as Maboke throws in towel
FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-The drama at Masvingo Utd aka Una Una has taken a new twist following the unexpected resignation of one of the main sponsors of the team, former City of Masvingo Mayor, Advocate Collen Maboke.
Maboke in his letter of resignation said he is stepping down as brand ambassador because of professional reasons.
His resignation comes amid allegations of internal divisions within the club, with a section of supporters reportedly demanding the removal of lawyers Philip Shumba, Omen Mafa, and Maboke from the club’s leadership structures.
The supporters, who claim to have connections within the ruling ZANU-PF party, argue that the club belongs to the party following donations reportedly received from President Emmerson Mnangagwa, including a vehicle, a bus and US$150,000.
They allege that individuals perceived to sympathise with opposition politics should not be part of the club’s executive.
In a resignation letter seen by The Midweek Watch, Maboke announced his immediate departure from the role.
“I inform the club, Masvingo United Football Club, through your good office, that I have ceased my role and duties as the brand ambassador for the club with immediate effect,” he wrote.
Maboke said that the interests of the club and his legal practice could not be compromised.
“The competing interests of the club and the legal practice known as Ruvengo Maboke and Company, Legal Practitioners, cannot be compromised on my account,” he stated.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that several key players have also left the club including Hillary Bakacheza, who is understood to have signed for Deportivo La Murambinda.
Masvingo United FC are also enduring a difficult campaign on the field. The club currently sits eighth on the league table with 23 points from 17 matches, as it looks to revive its fortunes during the remainder of the season.
On Saturday Una Una lost 0-1 to Yadah FC at home.
