By 
Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has counseled that the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) must conduct its elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) before February 28, 2025, as the tenure of the current Executive Committee expires on that date.
In a legal opinion dated February 14, 2025, Kabesha clarified that any attempt to hold elections beyond this period—such as the proposed March 29, 2025, date—would be unconstitutional.
Following this guidance, the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) has directed FAZ to comply fully and ensure elections take place within the legal timeframe.
Speaking at a media briefing held at NASDEC on Wednesday, NSCZ Chief Executive Officer, Sombwa Musunsa, warned that after February 28, 2025, the Council would no longer recognise, Andrew Kamanga, as FAZ President.
“The Attorney General has clearly rulled that the mandate of the current Executive Committee ends on February 28, 2025. Beyond this date, they will have no authority to administer FAZ unless a new Executive Committee is elected,” Musunsa stated.
He explained that NSCZ’s directive followed months of consultations with FAZ and other stakeholders.
The Council had initially summoned FAZ officials on January 9, 2025, to discuss concerns surrounding the election roadmap announced in December 2024.
However, due to ongoing disputes, NSCZ sought legal clarification from the Attorney General.
“The law is very clear. Any decision made by the Executive Committee after February 28, 2025, will have no constitutional legitimacy,” Musunsa emphasized.
In addition to ordering timely elections, NSCZ has instructed FAZ to explain the recent disqualification of several candidates, a move that has sparked widespread discontent among FAZ members and the public.
“This issue has created significant discontent among candidates, FAZ members, and the public,” Musunsa said. “FAZ must ensure that the nomination process is transparent and lawful. Any unfair disqualifications must be reviewed.”
NSCZ warned that failure to comply with its directive would result in disciplinary action under the Sports Council Act.
The Act grants NSCZ the authority to suspend the activities of any association or official found to be acting against the interests of sports or the public.
“Ignoring this directive will be considered a violation of the Sports Council Act, which may lead to serious consequences, including suspension,” Musunsa cautioned.
He also urged other sports associations preparing for elections to uphold principles of fairness and transparency.
“The disqualification of candidates without due process and the use of underhand methods to manipulate elections will not be tolerated—whether in FAZ or any other association,” he stated.
Musunsa called on FAZ to prioritize the integrity of football governance, emphasizing the sport’s significance to the Zambian people.
“Football is a sport loved and cherished by many Zambians. FAZ and its leadership have a duty to safeguard its credibility. Our actions must serve the greater good of the game, empower athletes, and unite the nation,” he said.
He further urged aggrieved parties to resolve disputes through proper channels instead of resorting to litigation.
“We encourage all concerned stakeholders to exhaust the procedures outlined in the Sports Council Act. NSCZ remains open to engaging with all parties to resolve outstanding issues amicably,” Musunsa said.
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