The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has expressed concern over the growing tendency by some soccer fans to introduce political slogans into football stadia, warning that the practice risks undermining the unifying role of football in the country.
FAZ reminds supporters that football is a shared national passion that brings together people from different political, social and cultural backgrounds. Football House, therefore, urges fans to keep political messaging out of football and ensure that stadia remain places where supporters unite behind their teams in an atmosphere of mutual respect, fair play and sporting excellence.
While FAZ recognises the right to freedom of expression, it emphasises that such rights must be exercised within the applicable football regulations. FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the Association’s position is guided by established continental and international football regulations.
He cited Article 40(1) of the CAF Safety and Security Regulations, which prohibits the promotion or announcement of political or religious messages inside or in the immediate vicinity of a stadium before, during and after a match. Chakatazya added that Article 40(2) also prohibits the display of political or religious banners, symbols, pictures and items in these areas.
He further referred to Article 2(1)(l) of the CAF Statutes, which emphasises the independence of African football management and the need to avoid political interference, as well as Article 4(2) of the FIFA Statutes, which establishes FIFA’s neutrality in matters of politics and religion.
“Football belongs to all Zambians, regardless of their political affiliation. Our stadia must remain places where people come together to support their teams, not platforms for advancing political interests. We urge all supporters to respect the regulations and preserve the unifying spirit of the game,” Chakatazya pleaded.
The General Secretary warned that FAZ would work with relevant stakeholders and stadium authorities to uphold the applicable regulations and pursue appropriate action against individuals who breach established stadium rules and disciplinary requirements.
He stressed that the Association’s priority is to protect the integrity of football while ensuring that fans can enjoy the game in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.
“We want every supporter to feel welcome at our stadia, but that comes with a responsibility to respect football’s rules. We will take appropriate action against violations in accordance with the applicable regulations because protecting football’s integrity must remain our collective responsibility,” Chakatazya said.
