ZESCO United Challenges Suspension by Zambian Premier League

03.04.2026 | Football DNA

ZESCO United F.C. has confirmed that it has received correspondence from the Zambian Premier League (ZPL) regarding the club’s purported suspension from league activities. According to the club, the letter was dated 12 February 2025 but was only received on 2 April 2026.

In an official statement released on Friday, Acting Chief Executive Officer James Ngoma explained that the suspension stems from the club’s appeal after it was excluded from the ABSA Cup despite having qualified.

The club stated that it had lawfully participated in and won a qualifying match against Zanaco Football Club, which secured its place in the tournament. However, it said that after the result, the rules governing qualification were allegedly altered and applied in a manner that contradicted the established regulations, ultimately leading to ZESCO United’s removal from the competition.

Following the development, the club reported that it formally engaged the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and requested the convening of the constitutionally mandated Arbitration Tribunal to address the dispute in line with football governance statutes. According to the club, both FAZ and the ZPL declined to facilitate the request, indicating that the matter was administrative and did not require intervention from another body.

ZESCO United further indicated that, in accordance with the FAZ Constitution and the provisions of the Zambian Arbitration Act, it sought judicial intervention from the High Court of Zambia. The club clarified that its legal action was not intended to have the court determine the dispute itself but rather to compel FAZ to convene the Arbitration Tribunal so that the matter could be heard through the proper football governance mechanisms.

The club added that, as of 2 April 2026, the High Court had directed FAZ to facilitate the convening of the Arbitration Tribunal to hear the dispute involving FAZ, the ZPL and ZESCO United.

ZESCO United maintained that it is guided by principles of fairness, integrity and respect for due process. The club argued that the suspension is irregular and inconsistent with established disciplinary procedures.

Despite the ongoing dispute, the Ndola-based side said it remains committed to resolving the matter through the appropriate football governance channels and continues to engage relevant stakeholders in pursuit of a fair, lawful and timely resolution.

The club also called on its supporters, partners and stakeholders to remain calm, patient and united during the process, assuring them that further updates will be provided as the situation develops.