Zambian Football Association President Andrew Kamanga Charged with Money Laundering

Andrew Kamanga, the president of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), has been arrested and charged with money laundering offenses by the country's Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC). The DEC alleges that Kamanga obtained government funds under false pretenses and was part of a conspiracy to defraud.

Kamanga, along with FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, Madalitso Kamanga, and Jairous Siame, are accused of using the funds to finance trips for associates to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, even though Madalitso Kamanga and Siame did not hold official or executive positions within FAZ at the time. The DEC claims the fraudulent activity occurred between January 1 and February 15, coinciding with the AFCON finals where Zambia exited at the group stage.

The quartet allegedly worked together to obtain 341,902 Zambian kwacha ($13,150, £10,580) from the government for expenses and a further 99,980 kwacha ($3,850, £3,095) for return flights to Ivory Coast. Kamanga has defended the inclusion of Madalitso Kamanga and Siame, stating that they were "part and parcel of FAZ."

Why this matters: The arrest of a high-profile sports official like the FAZ president on fraud charges raises concerns about the integrity and governance of football in Zambia. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of government funds allocated to sports organizations.

FAZ has stated that Andrew Kamanga's arrest is part of a long-term plan to bring his reputation into question ahead of the governing body's elections next year, but the organization's spokesperson said his position is not under immediate threat as the matter has to go to court. The DEC has said the suspects are finalizing bond arrangements and will be arraigned in court soon.

Key Takeaways

• FAZ president Andrew Kamanga arrested for money laundering offenses by Zambia's DEC.
• Kamanga and others accused of using government funds to finance AFCON trips for associates.
• DEC claims $13,150 obtained under false pretenses and $3,850 for return flights to Ivory Coast.
• Arrest raises concerns about integrity and governance in Zambian football, need for transparency.
• FAZ claims arrest is part of plan to question Kamanga's reputation before 2024 elections.