31.05.2024 | Football in my DNA
FIFA representative Gelson Fernandes has arrived in the country on a fact-finding mission following the aborted FAZ Annual General Meeting (AGM). Fernandes was received by FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga.
Speaking upon his arrival, Fernandes emphasized that FIFA is here to show its presence and support for Zambia's potential in football development. “I am here on a fact-finding mission over what happened a few weeks ago. I think it's important for FIFA to show its presence here in Zambia because we care about this country. We must understand that there are things that we can do and those we cannot do in football. Zambia has so much potential to grow, so we can't just jeopardize that,” Fernandes stated.
He further emphasized the need for members to understand that football is governed by statutes. “The FIFA council is responsible for putting out sanctions. The fact is certain actions against the states that govern football is something we all must understand. Another fact is that third-party interference is not permitted. Otherwise, we will not have the general assembly. The general assembly is the most democratic place; it's open. The agenda is clear, and I'm here for football development, and that is what I want. This is the commitment from the world governing body FIFA that the people of this country need to understand that FIFA is behind Zambia and Zambian football, the clubs, the boys, girls, and all youths to make sure that football grows,” Fernandes said.
Fernandes also praised Zambia’s achievements in football development. “Zambia is a fantastic football country. They have done extremely well in terms of football development. We have projects under the FIFA Forward projects that I want to inspect. I also want to witness the coronation of the 2023/2024 MTN Super League Champions Red Arrows,” he said.
He noted that while the FIFA president has never visited Zambia, there are ongoing efforts to arrange a visit. “We are still working on a programme, and Zambia is a potential venue for the meeting we are organizing. The programme is not yet complete, but it will depend on what will be resolved,” Fernandes added.
FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga expressed hope that Fernandes’ visit would help settle existing differences. “We are happy to receive the FIFA Director of Member Associations of Africa for the first time. His visit is also an indication that, depending on the results, he will recommend that the FIFA president can visit in the next couple of days. I think it's a great honour to be considered for such a visit,” Kamanga said. He also highlighted the importance of resolving ongoing issues in Zambian football. “At the back of all this, it's settling all the issues surrounding differences we have in football. The issues that are in court and those before law enforcement agencies. And we hope that with his visit, we can put to bed all those issues,” Kamanga added.
The FIFA envoy is also scheduled to meet with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts as part of the efforts to address and resolve the challenges facing the Zambian football scene.
Credit: FAZ
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