A stakeholders meeting called by Mighty Wanderers FC trustees on Tuesday evening to determine the way forward on elections and arbitrate on the warring factions failed to reach a consensus.
Trustees vice-chairperson James Chuma confirmed calling off the meeting because the camp led by incumbent general secretary David Kanyenda had concerns over some issues.
“The meeting started on a good note, but there were still signs of tension between the two camps and the camp led by the club GS walked out before we could agree on issues such as dates of elections and the method for the same,” said Chuma.
“It would appear they came to the meeting with a negative attitude, which was unfortunate because this meeting was not only called to agree on the elections but also to bring the two factions together,” he said.
However, Chuma said all the concerned parties agreed on the need for elections as soon as possible and that the trustees will determine the way forward.
The Nomads trustee further said they have put on hold the earlier plan to dissolve both the executive and main supporters committees.
“That was the idea, but for the time being, they will continue to operate until we determine the way forward,” he said.
Kanyenda confirmed that the meeting did not reach a consensus, adding: “My advice is that the trustees should be neutral and tread with caution; otherwise, this dispute may have to be resolved externally through third parties.”
Kanyenda said they will only agree to the elections if the trustees put in place mechanisms that will ensure free and fair elections.
Tuesday’s meeting followed ugly scenes that occurred outside the team’s clubhouse at Chichiri where pangas and stones flew leading to the injury of some supporters who were treated at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
It is alleged that the Wanderers family has split into two camps—one loyal to incumbent Chamangwana and the other belonging to Kanyenda.
