The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has dismissed social media reports alleging that its President, Keith Mweemba, was assaulted by some individuals during the match between Zambia and Uganda played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium yesterday.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya who described the reports as false and unfounded, stated that the President was not a victim of any physical assault during the reported rumpus at the stadium.
“We wish to refute reports circulating on social media alleging that the FAZ President was attacked by a group of individuals at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. At no point was he physically assaulted or abused. We urge social media users to act responsibly and refrain from spreading falsehoods that bring FAZ or its leadership into disrepute,” Chakatazya said.
“The only disappointing issue which happened at half time was where two individuals forced their way into the VVIP Lounge and demanded that they also deserved to be allowed inside,” Chakatazya added.
He said these individuals caused confusion which was later contained after the police intervened and restored order. Chakatazya urged individuals who create content for monetisation to desist from using FAZ and its leadership to generate engagement through unsubstantiated claims.
He expressed disappointment that attention had shifted to the alleged incident instead of celebrating the Copper Queens’ victory over Uganda and their progression to the next round of the Olympic qualifiers.
“Under normal circumstances, a national team’s victory should be a moment of celebration. The Copper Queens have won and progressed to the next round, yet some individuals have chosen to focus on unsubstantiated claims rather than acknowledge this achievement. Are they happy or sad that we won,” he wondered.
Chakatazya warned that FAZ would not hesitate to take appropriate action against individuals who use social media to spread misinformation or bring the Association and its leadership into disrepute.
The General Secretary urged those responsible for circulating false information to desist from misleading the public and to exercise greater responsibility in their use of social media.
