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MY DECISION TO STAND OR NOT CANNOT BE MADE CASUALLY – MPONDELA

The upcoming 2024 Zambia Athletics (ZA) elections, set for March 22, 2025, are drawing closer, but current federation President Elias Mpondela has yet to declare whether he will seek re-election.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Diamond Sports, Zambia Athletics General Secretary Davison Mung’ambata confirmed that Mpondela has not officially announced his candidacy, despite growing speculation about his political future within the federation.

Mung’ambata further revealed that the nomination process, which had been delayed, has now been extended, with the new deadline set for February 6, 2025. This extension, he explained, was necessary to accommodate provincial area boards still in the process of submitting their nominations. Once the deadline passes, the federation will compile and release a complete list of all candidates vying for positions in the upcoming elections.

As the deadline approaches, many within Zambia’s athletics community are keenly watching Mpondela, who has been at the helm of Zambia Athletics for decades. When asked about his potential candidacy, Mpondela remained tight-lipped, stating that his decision to stand or not “cannot be made casually.” His statement leaves room for speculation about whether he will seek another term or step aside to allow new leadership within the federation.

Mpondela’s tenure has been a subject of mixed reactions among athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts. Supporters credit him with bringing stability and progress to Zambia Athletics, while critics argue that new leadership is needed to revamp the sport and introduce fresh ideas.

With the election date drawing closer, the final list of candidates is expected to shape the future of Zambia Athletics, determining the leadership and direction of the sport for the next term. The coming days will be crucial in revealing the federation’s next chapter as stakeholders await the full lineup of contenders for one of Zambia’s most influential sporting bodies.
By Cosmas Chonga Mulenga

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