This warning comes after the ZNCS wrote to FIFA proposing the establishment of a transitional committee, an independent electoral body, and a thorough review of the FAZ electoral process.
FIFA has warned Zambia that it risks being banned from international football following the Sports Council of Zambia's (ZNCS) refusal to recognize the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) executive committee. The governing body of world football emphasized that member associations are legally required to manage their affairs independently, free from external influence, including interference from government bodies.
In a letter to the ZNCS, FIFA reminded the council: “Every member association of FIFA is statutorily obliged to manage its affairs independently and without undue influence from third parties, including government bodies.” The letter further stated that any breach of this obligation could lead to sanctions under FIFA’s statutes.
Should Zambia proceed with the creation of a transitional committee, as proposed by the ZNCS, it could violate these rules. FIFA warned that this would likely result in the matter being referred to its decision-making body for further evaluation, which could include suspending FAZ from international football.
This warning comes after the ZNCS wrote to FIFA proposing the establishment of a transitional committee, an independent electoral body, and a thorough review of the FAZ electoral process. The ZNCS has also requested FIFA's involvement in the process, ahead of FAZ's upcoming elective annual general meeting, scheduled for March 29, 2025.
The lead-up to the elections has been clouded by controversy, particularly after FAZ’s electoral body disqualified presidential candidates, leaving incumbent Andrew Kamanga as the only remaining candidate.
However, the decision was later reversed, fueling further unrest and confusion within Zambia’s football community.
As the election date approaches, the situation remains tense, with both FIFA and local stakeholders closely monitoring the developments to ensure compliance with the necessary governance standards.