In a stunning development for Zambian football, the president of the Football Association of Zambia (Faz), Andrew Kamanga, has been arrested and charged with money laundering by the country’s Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).
The allegations against Kamanga involve the misappropriation of government funds and conspiracy to defraud.
The DEC claims that Kamanga, 57, obtained government funds under false pretences and used them to finance trips for two individuals to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast earlier this year.
These individuals, identified as Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame, purportedly traveled to the tournament as part of Faz’s support staff, although investigations revealed they did not hold official positions within the association.
Additionally, Faz’s general secretary, Reuben Kamanga, has also been implicated in the scandal.
The quartet allegedly collaborated to secure approximately 341,902 Zambian kwacha (equivalent to $13,150) from the government for expenses related to the tournament and an additional 99,980 kwacha (about $3,850) for return flights to Ivory Coast.
The DEC disclosed that this fraudulent activity transpired between January 1 and February 15, coinciding with Zambia’s performance at the Nations Cup finals, where the team exited during the group stage.
Responding to the arrest, an Faz spokesperson asserted that Kamanga’s apprehension was likely part of a strategic ploy to undermine his reputation ahead of the forthcoming Faz elections next year.
The spokesperson reassured that Kamanga’s position within the organization was not immediately at risk due to the arrest, emphasizing that legal proceedings must occur and any allegations proven in court.
According to the DEC, the suspects are currently finalizing bond processes and are expected to appear in court imminently.
The news of Kamanga’s arrest has sent shockwaves through Zambia’s football community, with many calling for transparency and accountability within Faz.
The timing of these allegations has further intensified speculation ahead of the association’s upcoming annual general meeting in Lusaka this weekend.
As the legal process unfolds, the fate of Andrew Kamanga and his co-accused will undoubtedly have significant implications for the leadership and integrity of Zambian football.
Source: BBC
PHOTO: X
