In 1994, Leonard Zhakata’s iconic song “Mugove” shook Zimbabwe, echoing the struggles of the common man and the importance of familial obligation and social responsibility.
Mugove became an instant anthem as it resonated with the struggle of the working class.
The song’s themes of struggle, equity, and social responsibility resonate deeply with the players of FC Hunters, who are fighting for their rights amidst the club’s championship celebrations gone sour.
FC Hunters, the Clever Boys, made history by becoming the first club from Mashonaland East to clinch the Eastern Region championship since independence, a feat last achieved by the all-conquering St Paul’s Musami FC of the 1960s.
The team fended off serious competition from runners-up Tenax Correctional Services Football Club and third-placed Masvingo United Football Club, with their vocal and passionate fans thronging Rudhaka Stadium to push them to the promised land.
However, behind the scenes, a different story was unfolding.
Players have been left unpaid since September 2025, their winning bonuses and salaries withheld by club president Andrew Gore.
Several reports painted a picture that since the club secured the Eastern Region championship, Gore and his executive went into hibernation.
Gore’s dealings have raised eyebrows, with reports suggesting he was running around negotiating the sale of his franchise to suitors, prioritizing his own interests over the welfare of his players.
The reportedly partnership with N’ombeyaora where Gore is said to have pocketed a ten percent commission has sparked outrage, with players questioning why they shouldn’t benefit from the deal.
The outrage began when Simbarashe “Runos” Runodada, Chairman of the FC Hunters Supporters Association, made a comment in the club’s official WhatsApp group, suggesting that fans start a Go Fund to help the players.
”If you want to help the players with money, why don’t you start a Go Fund because saying airing out your grievances over here will not bring out the money, that money is available where it is supposed to be available,” Runodada said.
The players, who have been unpaid since September 2025, finally exploded, expressing their frustration and hurt.
Kudzai Taipi, one of FC Hunters’ senior players during the past few years, responded: “Runos, we need our money, please. Our hard work and dedication mustn’t go down the drain. Our sweat must not be in vain. All along we have tried to be civil, but that is not helping. Where do you want us to reach with the poverty we are having at our homes?”
Danny Tagara chimed in: “My brother Runos, it’s best if you keep quiet rather than defending Mr Gore who has our monies. We have families to feed, rent and school fees to pay, and this is our livelihood. If you do not have anything to say, better keep your silence or at least reach out to Mr Gore and the Chairman so that we get our outstanding balances and some of us want clearances.”
Ashford Nyamajiwa, another player, clapped back at Runodada: “Runos, I respect you my brother as a player. But what you should know my dear brother in football, you’ve to pay up players their money until the contract expires. How do you feel as a breadwinner at your family since October 2026 you are not paid your money after working?”
The situation further escalated into a war of words, with fans and players alike calling out the club’s exploitation. “FC Hunters is violating the players’ contracts and their rights,” said a disgruntled fan. “They haven’t paid players and coaches since October. They’re not responding or picking up calls either. That’s violating players’ contracts.”
One fan shared a sad picture of Godfrey Dabgwa’s situation.
Dabgwa’s potential moves were blocked by Gore as he is holding out to a hefty payment.
”I feel deep sympathy for talented young players like Tina (Dabgwa), who’s been let down by the club. When we met, Tina shared a heartbreaking story and he was visibly hungry and upset.”
Former players like Munashe Mudowaya and Danny Tagara have had to engage the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe to intervene, while others have approached the Desmond Maringwa organization for help.
The players’ struggle is a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in Zimbabwean football.
As Zhakata sang, “Kana paine pamakandichengetera Baba, ndokumbirawo Mugove wangu ndichiri kurarama,” (If it is possible Father, can I have my dues while I’m still alive..).
For FC Hunters’ players, the share they seek is not just financial; it’s justice.
As the drama unfolds, the players’ voices echo the haunting refrain of “Mugove”: when will they receive their share?
The song’s themes of struggle, equity, and social responsibility resonate deeply with the players, who are fighting for their rights.
The FC Hunters saga serves as a reminder that, in Zimbabwean football, the common man’s struggle is far from over.
As long as players continue to be exploited, the bitter taste of Mugove will linger.
