FAZ PRESIDENT MWEEMBA WARNS AGAINST INDISCIPLINE AND SABOTAGE

06.06.2025 | Football DNA

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President, Keith Mweemba, has issued a stern warning against indiscipline among players and what he described as deliberate acts of sabotage aimed at derailing the progress of the association.

Speaking in the wake of recent events, Mweemba condemned the actions of some national team players who have refused to honour call-ups due to unpaid allowances. He labelled such behaviour a betrayal of national duty, stating that the national team is not a platform for boycotts or power struggles.

“No player is bigger than the national badge. Representing Zambia should be seen as a privilege, not a right,” Mweemba emphasized. “Those who think they can hold the nation to ransom by withdrawing from duty should know the door might not always be open to them. We are not short of talent in this country.”

The FAZ President revealed that the association is currently grappling with financial challenges, with debts exceeding K100 million, including unpaid allowances, accommodation bills, and salaries. Despite the financial strain, Mweemba reaffirmed FAZ's commitment to clearing the debt and rebuilding trust with stakeholders for the betterment of Zambian football.

The crisis reached a boiling point as several Chipolopolo players refused to report for camp ahead of the scheduled international friendly matches against Sudan and Tunisia, citing unpaid dues. As a result, both matches—initially set for today and 10 June—have been cancelled.

In response, the FAZ Executive Committee is expected to convene a critical meeting tomorrow to deliberate on the matter, including engagements with members of the former committee to address the underlying issues and chart a path forward.

The unfolding situation raises key questions about discipline, patriotism, and how the country can sustainably manage its national team amid financial hardship.