A fierce standoff has erupted between the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) and FIFA over the leadership of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ). NSCZ, Zambia’s top sports regulatory body, has categorically stated that it does not recognize Andrew Kamanga as the FAZ President, citing the expiration of his tenure on February 28, 2025. This position directly contradicts FIFA’s stance, which maintains Kamanga’s legitimacy and insists that FAZ must operate independently without interference from third parties.
The dispute came to a head after NSCZ issued a strongly worded letter to FAZ, reminding them that the tenure of Kamanga and his Executive Committee had officially ended and that any decisions made by them would be unconstitutional. According to NSCZ, the FAZ statutes do not provide for an extension of the Executive Committee’s mandate beyond its stipulated term. NSCZ further warned that any attempts by FAZ to disregard this directive could result in suspensions for those involved, in line with the Sports Council of Zambia Act.
However, FIFA has responded with equal firmness, reaffirming Kamanga’s presidency and warning against any external interference in FAZ affairs. In its letter dated March 13, 2025, FIFA emphasized that FAZ must continue to fulfill its statutory obligations and hold its Elective General Meeting on March 29, 2025, under Kamanga’s leadership. FIFA further clarified that all regional Elective General Meetings must proceed under FAZ’s internal regulations, effectively dismissing NSCZ’s position.
This escalating power struggle raises concerns over Zambia’s football governance and the risk of potential FIFA sanctions should the impasse persist. NSCZ maintains that its actions are in defense of local sports governance laws, while FIFA insists on non-interference in FAZ operations. As both parties stand their ground, the future of Zambian football hangs in the balance.
