In response to the nationwide match referee boycott, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has named Derrick Kafuli, a former FIFA referee, as the interim referees manager.

His hiring follows Aziph Banda’s suspension, for which he is facing several allegations, including one related to match manipulation.

“We have appointed former FIFA Referee Derrick Kafuli as acting Referees Manager. Kafuli’s credentials make him an ideal candidate in our quest to rebuild confidence in the refereeing fraternity,”

FAZ Secretary General Reuben Kamanga added that the boycotts of matches in three regions namely Lusaka, Central and Southern provinces.

“We commend provinces that have kept matches running as we work out a solution in the background, Generally, the concerns revolve around transport and unpaid match officiating allowances.” said Kamanga.

Go back to pitch, Kamanga urge referees.

FAZ has asked referees who have skipped matches to come back to the field while their issues are being addressed.

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“We appeal to match officials that have boycotted officiating to get back to the pitch as we address their concerns,” he said.