By Sports Writer
ZIMBABWEAN basketball will head into a decisive moment when the Basketball union of Zimbabwe (BUZ) holds elections on November 15 in Gweru, a vote that could finally end months of internal turmoil.
The elections are expected to usher in fresh leadership, with both president Joe Mujuru and secretary general Charmaine Chamboko confirming they will not seek re-election.
Mujuru said preparations were complete and the union was committed to a fair process.
“All is in place ahead of the elections for a new leadership in Gweru. Our goal is to ensure a transparent and credible process that reflects the true will of our basketball community,” said Mujuru.
The full list of candidates will be released next week, with delegates from all 10 provincial associations expected to cast their votes. The change in leadership comes after a turbulent period for the sport, marked by a rebellion from seven provinces that passed a vote of no confidence in Mujuru’s administration.
The dissenting provinces accused the outgoing leadership of mismanagement, corruption, and violating the BUZ constitution, claims Mujuru has consistently denied.
In July, his lawyers at Sengweni Legal Practice dismissed the attempted ouster as “unconstitutional, ill-advised and of no consequence,” insisting only a properly convened central board meeting had authority to remove a sitting president.
Despite the chaos, Mujuru remained defiant, determined to complete his term and leave on his own terms.
“My focus has always been on stabilising basketball and ensuring we leave behind a functional structure. Whatever differences existed, the elections give everyone a fair chance to shape the future of the game,” said Mujuru.
The November 15 elections will determine the new BUZ executive committee, which will serve a four-year term.
Whoever takes over faces a long to-do list, from mending divisions and rebuilding trust to reviving grassroots structures and restoring Zimbabwe’s visibility in regional competitions.
