The Zimbabwe Referees Committee (ZIFA RC) has continued its crackdown on unprofessional match officials in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
The ZIFA RC has suspended centre referees Lloyd Mapanje and Grice Gimo, along with assistant referee Claris Simango.
The trio become the latest victims after the association suspended match officials Owen Manenda, Lawrence Zimondi, Nelson Meke, and Tichaona Mbire last month.
ZIFA stated:
The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to announce that disciplinary measures have been taken against three match officials following assessments of their recent performances during Premier League fixtures. As part of ZIFA’s commitment to upholding professionalism, integrity and high officiating standards, the following suspensions have been issued in line with paragraph 21 of the Referees Code of Conduct:
1. Referee Lloyd Mapanje
Suspended from officiating Premier League matches from matchday 17 to matchday 20. This follows his performance during the Dynamos versus Yadah match played at Rufaro Stadium on 19 June 2025, which was reported by the Match Commissioner as not meeting the expected standard.
2. Referee Grace Gimo
Suspended from officiating Premier League matches from matchday 16 to matchday 19. This action follows her performance during the Green Fuel versus TelOne match played at Green Fuel Arena on 14 June 2025, which was found to be below the required standard.
3. Assistant Referee Claris Simango
Suspended from officiating Premier League matches from matchday 17 to matchday 20. This decision was based on her performance during the Dynamos versus Yadah match on 19 June 2025, which the Match Commissioner assessed as not meeting the expected level of officiating.
ZIFA emphasises the critical role that match officials play in maintaining the credibility of the game and reiterates its expectation that all referees and assistant referees consistently demonstrate fairness, competence and professionalism. The Association remains committed to ensuring accountability while providing continuous support and development opportunities for its referees through training, evaluation and mentoring programmes.
