Tinotenda Hove – Highlanders F.C have firmly pushed back against attempts by businessman and Zanu PF benefactor Wicknell Chivayo to influence the club’s coaching appointment, stressing that they have not yet finalised their choice for the next head coach.

This comes after Chivayo publicly proposed that Benjani Mwaruwari be handed the job — even offering to “take care of his financial needs” if Bosso accepted his recommendation.

On Monday, Chivayo suggested that Bosso should immediately consider Mwaruwari for the position, but the club responded with a measured and procedural stance.

In a statement issued on 1 December 2025, Highlanders said:
“Highlanders Football Club recognises the gesture by our benefactor Sir Wicknell Chivayo, in which he made a proposal to facilitate and take care of Mr. Benjani Mwaruwari if he were to be engaged as the club’s Head Coach.”

While thanking Chivayo, Bosso emphasised that the appointment of technical staff must follow the club’s established processes.
“While the news is greatly appreciated and the club believes he acted with the best interests of the club at heart, the club would like to remind its stakeholders that there are processes and procedures that are in place that speak to the hiring of Technical and playing staff.”

Highlanders further clarified that they are already advanced in discussions with a different candidate — and no appointment has yet been made.
“The club is in the process of finalising with a potential candidate to take over from Mr. De Jongh in time for the coming season. This development will be shared with the Highlanders FC family once concluded.”

The statement closed with gratitude for Chivayo’s continued support:
“We thank Sir Chivayo for his consideration and continued support to the club. We look forward to greater support as the club turns 100 years in the year 2026. Siyabonga.”

As Bosso prepare for a milestone year, the club has sent a clear message: decisions on its technical leadership remain firmly in-house.