The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts and the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) have condemned the chanting of political slogans at football matches, warning that the practice threatens the unifying spirit of the game.
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Kangwa Chileshe, condemned the conduct of some individuals during the league match between Nkana FC and Makeni All Stars at Nkana Stadium on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
“Sport must not be used as a platform for advancing political agendas. Such conduct undermines the spirit of sport and risks turning football grounds into centres of political confrontation,” he said.
He warned that political activities at football matches could provoke rival groups, create unnecessary tension and potentially lead to violence.
Mr Chileshe called on FAZ, the Zambia Premier League (ZPL) and football clubs to strengthen supporter sensitisation and take firm action to ensure political chants and activities are not tolerated at matches.
He further stressed that clubs must take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters, adding that the incident at Nkana Stadium should not set a precedent.
It is understood that a group of unknown fans at Nkana Stadium flashed symbols and chanted “Pe Lampi,” a slogan associated with incarcerated opposition leader Brian Mundubile.
Mundubile is facing seditious offences following the August 13 general elections, which were won by incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema.
FAZ warns Fans
In a separate statement issued on Sunday, October 11, FAZ also cautioned fans against introducing political slogans into football stadia.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the Association’s position was guided by continental and international football regulations that prohibit political messaging in and around stadiums.
He cited Article 40(1) of the Confederation of African Football (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.
Mr Chakatazya also referred to Article 40(2), which prohibits political or religious banners, symbols, pictures and items in the same areas, as well as provisions in the CAF and FIFA statutes emphasising football’s independence and political neutrality.
“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,” he said.
FAZ warned that it would work with relevant stakeholders and stadium authorities to enforce the regulations and pursue appropriate action against individuals who violate stadium rules.
