ANDREW KAMANGA GOES UNOPPOSED FOR FAZ PRESIDENCY

Andrew Kamanga has been re-elected as the president of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) for the 2025-2029 term after all eight other candidates were disqualified for failing to meet eligibility criteria.

FAZ Electoral Committee Chairperson Ronald Hatoongo confirmed that Kamanga was the only nominee who met the requirements set by the FAZ Constitution. The disqualified candidates failed to satisfy key constitutional conditions, including passing an integrity test and having at least five years of leadership experience within a FAZ-affiliated entity, as outlined in Article 33(5) of the FAZ Constitution.

The disqualified aspirants have a five-day window to appeal before the final list is published by the Appeals Committee. Meanwhile, the race for FAZ vice president remains competitive, with Justin Mumba and Christopher Kasale set to go head-to-head.

Kamanga, who has served as FAZ president since 2016, expressed confidence ahead of the elections, stating that he was not worried about the growing number of individuals declaring interest in his position. He emphasized his commitment to improving Zambian football governance and infrastructure. Notably, Kamanga has indicated that this will be his final tenure as FAZ president, despite being eligible for another term after the amendment of the constitution.

The FAZ electoral process has been marked by strict adherence to the constitutional requirements, leading to the disqualification of several high-profile candidates. For instance, former FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala announced his candidacy but was among those disqualified for not meeting the eligibility criteria.

The vice-presidential race continues to draw attention, with candidates emphasizing their commitment to uniting the football community and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to revolutionize Zambian football. The outcome of this contest is eagerly awaited by football enthusiasts across the nation.

As the electoral process progresses, FAZ has urged all candidates and stakeholders to trust the system and allow the process to run smoothly as laid out in the constitution and electoral code.

The final list of eligible candidates will be published by the Appeals Committee after the conclusion of the appeal window, solidifying the leadership that will steer Zambian football for the next four years.

Mulenga Chimpapa Makasa