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World football governing body, FIFA has responded to National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) alleged withdrawal of recognition accorded the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) executive’s mandate, just three weeks before the elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Livingstone.
In a letter addressed to FAZ General Secretary, Reuben Kamanga, FIFA’s Chief Member Associations Officer, Elkhan Mammadov, warned that any third-party interference in FAZ affairs could lead to sanctions, including a possible suspension from FIFA.
“Should the Zambian authorities insist on their chosen path of dictating the electoral process, the matter would be referred to FIFA’s relevant decision-making body for consideration and decision, which might also include the suspension of FAZ,” the letter read.
FIFA’s response followed a February 27, 2025 letter from the NSCZ Director/Chief Executive Officer, who proposed the establishment of a transitional committee and an independent electoral committee, along with FIFA engagement and a comprehensive review of FAZ’s electoral process.
FIFA emphasized that FAZ was required to manage its affairs independently, free from government influence, citing Articles 14 and 19 of the FIFA Statutes.
“Any breach of this obligation may lead to sanctions provided for in the FIFA Statutes, even if the third-party influence was not the fault of the member association concerned,” FIFA stated.
The governing body further warned that if a transitional committee were to be established, FAZ would risk violating FIFA statutes, potentially leading to suspension.
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“Should this happen, FIFA would have no other option but to submit the matter to its relevant decision-making body for consideration and decision, which might also include the suspension of FAZ.”
FIFA also confirmed it was closely monitoring the situation and would take further action if necessary.
Meanwhile, FAZ had notified NSCZ that its executive committee would hold a meeting on Friday, March 7, 2025, to approve financials ahead of the March 29 AGM.
“As per constitutional requirements, Exco must approve the financials before they are sent to members. We are on course for the March 29 AGM with all constitutional requirements fulfilled as per the FIFA-approved roadmap,” FAZ stated.
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