The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has dismissed social media reports alleging that its president, Keith Mweemba, was physically assaulted during Zambia’s Olympic qualifier against Uganda at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
FAZ general secretary Charles Chakatazya described the reports as false and unfounded, insisting that Mweemba was not physically attacked during the incident that reportedly caused confusion at half-time.
“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,” Chakatazya said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
He urged social media users to exercise responsibility when sharing information, warning against spreading claims that could damage the reputation of the association and its leadership.
“We urge social media users to act responsibly and refrain from spreading falsehoods that bring FAZ or its leadership into disrepute,” he added.
Chakatazya said the incident at half-time involved two individuals who allegedly forced their way into the VVIP lounge, demanding access to the restricted area.
“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,” he said.
According to the FAZ general secretary, the individuals caused confusion before police intervened and restored order.
Chakatazya also criticised content creators who, he said, were using unsubstantiated allegations involving the association and its leadership to generate online engagement and monetisation.
He expressed disappointment that the alleged incident had overshadowed the Copper Queens’ achievement in defeating Uganda 4-1 in Ndola to secure a 5-3 aggregate victory and progress to the third round of the 2028 Los Angeles 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?” Chakatazya asked.
The FAZ general secretary warned that the association would consider appropriate action against individuals found to be spreading misinformation or bringing the organisation and its leadership into disrepute.
He urged those circulating the allegations to stop misleading the public and exercise greater responsibility when using social media.
The Copper Queens’ victory over Uganda secured their place in the third round of the Olympic qualifiers, where they are scheduled to face Ghana.
