The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has suspended referees Lawrence Zimondi and Rumeck Edgar from officiating Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches for the remainder of the 2025 season following a controversial match between Dynamos FC and Ngezi Platinum Stars earlier this month.

The decision comes after ZIFA reviewed reports from the match commissioner for the fixture played at Rufaro Stadium on October 4, which cited “incorrect decisions that materially affected the outcome of the match.”

In a statement, the association said both officials were found to have breached Article 22 of the Referees’ Code of Conduct, prompting disciplinary action.

“After reviewing the matter, ZIFA determined that both officials breached Article 22 of the Referees’ Code of Conduct. In line with our commitment to uphold integrity, professionalism, and fairness in all competitions, the two referees have been suspended for the remainder of the 2025 PSL season,” read part of the statement.

The suspension is part of ZIFA’s wider effort to improve officiating standards and maintain confidence in local football amid increasing scrutiny over refereeing decisions in key league fixtures.

ZIFA reiterated that it “remains steadfast in promoting accountability and ensuring that the standard of officiating meets the highest expectations of the game.”

Turmoil has hit Highlanders FC after players refused to train at Barbourfields Stadium today, citing unpaid winning bonuses and outstanding sign-on fees, some reportedly dating as far back as 2024.

According to sources within the Bosso camp, frustration has been brewing for weeks, with several senior players expressing dissatisfaction over what they describe as “broken promises” by the club’s administration. The situation boiled over this morning when the entire squad declined to take part in the scheduled training session.

“Players are tired of waiting. Some haven’t received their sign on fees since last season,” said one insider, speaking on condition of anonymity. “They’ve been patient for too long, but now they want action, not excuses.”

The protest has sent shockwaves through the Bulawayo giants’ preparations ahead of their weekend clash against Simba Bhora. Players have reportedly warned that they will boycott Saturday’s match if management fails to address their grievances before then.

Efforts to get an official comment from the club’s executive were unsuccessful by the time of publishing, but the standoff adds to growing financial challenges facing the Bulawayo side.

Highlanders, one of Zimbabwe’s most storied football institutions, have endured a turbulent campaign both on and off the pitch this season. While the team remains within striking distance of the league’s top positions, morale inside the dressing room appears to be at an all-time low.

With just days before their next fixture, pressure is now mounting on the club leadership to find a quick resolution. A prolonged standoff could not only derail Bosso’s season but also dent their reputation as one of the country’s most stable football brands.

For now, the message from the players is clear: no pay, no play.

Bikita Minerals’ financial troubles have deepened, with players threatening to boycott Sunday’s crucial relegation showdown against Dynamos over unpaid salaries and allowances.

The lithium sponsored side sits on 36 points from 31 games, just two ahead of Dynamos and the drop zone and risks forfeiting the match if management fails to settle the outstanding dues.

Players say they’ve only received winning bonuses once this season and have gone without travel allowances for months, fueling growing frustration in the camp.

A walkover would hand Dynamos three priceless points at a time they desperately need them. The Harare giants, who recently overcame their own salary standoff before stunning Highlanders in the Chibuku Super Cup semifinal, appear unshaken by the unfolding drama in Bikita.

“We’re preparing as if the game is on,” a source at Dynamos said. “We don’t rely on miracles, only hard work.”

However, with just days before kickoff, the PSL may soon be forced to intervene if Bikita fails to resolve the impasse.

For both clubs hovering dangerously close to relegation, survival might not be settled on the pitch this weekend, but in the boardroom and bank accounts.