HARARE – TOP banker and Simba Bhora chairman Isaiah Mupfurutsa has landed the post as the new Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairman.
He promised a leadership style rooted in unity, development, and innovation.
Mupfurutsa had a narrow win over top contender Manica Diamonds’ Masimba Chihowa 10–8 in the second round of balloting.
He replaces outgoing CAPS United president Farai Jere and will now serve a four-year term, which also earns him a seat on the ZIFA board.
In his acceptance speech, the banker waxed lyrical over contributions made by Dynamos and Simba Bhora in his football administration career.
“My journey in the PSL began in 2018 thanks to Dynamos, and I owe particular gratitude to Bernard Marriot for bringing me in. Simba Bhora, especially Simba Ndoro, helped me stay in the game and grow,” he said.
Under his stewardship, Simba Bhora claimed their first Premier League title in 2024, just two seasons after their promotion to the top flight.
In the chairmanship race, Mupfurutsa is head of international banking at BancABC – secured initial backing from clubs including Highlanders, ZPC Kariba, Yadah, and his own Simba Bhora.
Chihowa was supported by Green Fuel, CAPS United, and Manica Diamonds, while other votes went to Leonard Musariri and Dumisani Sisale.
Highlanders were elected vice-chair unopposed with businessman and former soldier Kenneth Hlope occupying the position.
“This mandate comes with serious responsibility. What the league needs most is a calm, united environment—one where we can focus on football, not distractions,” he said.
Looking ahead, the new PSL boss said his administration will aim to build on existing structures while introducing improvements where needed.
“We won’t discard what’s working,” he noted. “But where there are gaps, we’ll act decisively. Whether it’s through innovation or stronger execution, the goal is to elevate the league.”
Expanding the league’s sponsorship base is high on Mupfurutsa’s to-do list, with Delta Beverages currently the main backer. Still, he says the foundation of everything will be solidarity.
“Before anything else, we need unity. After that, delivery will follow.”
