The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has warned football supporters against introducing political slogans into stadia, saying the practice risks undermining football’s role as a unifying force in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 11, FAZ urged fans to keep political messaging out of football and ensure that stadia remain spaces where supporters from different political, social and cultural backgrounds can come together in support of their teams.
The association acknowledged the right to freedom of expression but stressed that such freedoms must be exercised within the framework of established football regulations.
FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya said the association’s position was guided by continental and international football regulations that prohibit political messaging and displays at football venues.
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.
Chakatazya also referred to Article 40(2) of the regulations, which prohibits political or religious banners, symbols, pictures and other items in the same areas.
He further cited Article 2(1)(l) of the CAF Statutes, which emphasises the independence of African football management and the need to guard against political interference, alongside Article 4(2) of the FIFA Statutes, which establishes the global governing body’s neutrality on political and religious matters.
“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,” Chakatazya said.
“We urge all supporters to respect the regulations and preserve the unifying spirit of the game.”
FAZ warned that it would work with relevant stakeholders and stadium authorities to enforce the applicable rules and pursue appropriate action against individuals who breach stadium regulations and disciplinary requirements.
Chakatazya said the association’s priority was to protect the integrity of the game while ensuring that supporters could enjoy football in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.
“We want every supporter to feel welcome at our stadia, but that comes with a responsibility to respect football’s rules. We will take appropriate action against violations in accordance with the applicable regulations because protecting football’s integrity must remain our collective responsibility,” he added.
The warning comes as FAZ reiterates its position that football stadia should remain inclusive spaces where the focus is on the game rather than political interests.
