The future of Scottland FC, one of Zimbabwe’s most financially endowed football clubs, is reportedly uncertain following reports that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has called for the arrest of the team’s owner, Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya.
Sakupwanya, a Zanu PF legislator and prominent gold dealer, has allegedly been listed among several influential business figures accused of capturing state institutions and misusing public resources. The claims are said to have emerged from a dossier reportedly tabled by Chiwenga at a recent Zanu PF Politburo meeting.
According to information from the leaked document, Sakupwanya was named alongside businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, entrepreneur Wicknell Chivayo, and Delish Nguwaya — all accused of wielding excessive political and financial influence within the ruling party.
Insiders suggest that the latest developments reflect widening factional tensions within Zanu PF, with Chiwenga allegedly concerned that financial powerhouses such as Sakupwanya and his associates could sway the party’s future leadership succession in favour of Tagwirei.
Founded and financed by Sakupwanya, Scottland FC has quickly risen to prominence in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, becoming one of the best-resourced clubs in the country. The team enjoys significant backing from Sakupwanya and benefactors linked to the Sakunda Holdings network, reportedly injecting millions of dollars into the club’s operations and sponsorships.
Analysts warn that if the businessman faces arrest or sanctions, both his business empire and Scottland FC could suffer major setbacks potentially threatening the club’s long-term sustainability.
In his reported address, Chiwenga is said to have urged the President to take decisive action:
“Comrade President, individuals such as Kudakwashe Tagwirei, Wicknell Chivayo, Scott Sakupwanya, and Delish Nguwaya, together with their associates, must be held accountable for their actions. We cannot allow those accused of misusing public funds to manipulate our structures for their own protection,” he reportedly said.
Chiwenga further stressed that the ruling party must “reclaim control” from what he described as “state and party capture” by powerful business interests.
BhoraAfrika
