…Teams not fulfilling fixtures deserve stiff penalties, says ex FAZ chief

This is a big sham that needs to be addressed using the appropriate constitutional provisions the clubs signed to adhere to when participating in the league. To turn a blind eye is calling for anarchy in our local league. Ama points “nipachibansa.”

FORMER

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) secretary-general George Kasengele has called for stiffer punishment against clubs that fail to fulfil fixtures in the FAZ Super Division.

Kasengele said that failure to fulfill league fixtures especially in the highest league in the country cannot be allowed under any circumstances.

He said allowing failure by clubs to fulfil fixtures would send wrong signals to institutions and individuals putting money to sponsor teams as well as those who are sponsoring the league or those who may wish to do so in future.

Kasengele noted that punishment must be punitive and not allowed in any way especially with an abridged season where the league ends prematurely.

"If this is allowed it will send wrong siignas to institutions and individuals putting money to sponsor teams as well as those who are sponsoring the league or those who may wish to do so in future," Kasengele said.

“This is a big sham that needs to be addressed using the appropriate constitutional provisions the clubs signed to adhere to when participating in the league. To turn a blind eye is calling for anarchy in our local league. Ama points "nipachibansa." (Points should be won on the pitch) not in the boardroom).

Kasengele said that the failure to fulfil fixtures by teams was a dent on the professionalism and integrity of the league.

Mazabuka-based Super Division side Nakambala Leopards are said to have forfeited all their remaining matches due to Coronavirus fear.

Nakambala have had to forfeit their games against Buildcon, Zanaco and Nkana respectively after the team suspended training and closed its stadium.