The president of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), Andrew Kamanga, has been arrested and accused of money laundering.The country’s Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) claims that Kamanga unlawfully acquired government funds and participated in a scheme to deceive others.##NAJAVA_MECA_8056214##According to the DEC, Kamanga, aged 57, used the money to finance trips for two associates to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast earlier this year. These associates, Madalitso Kamanga, his brother, and Jairous Siame, who traveled as part of FAZ’s support staff, have also been charged, along with FAZ’s general secretary, Reuben Kamanga.Following an investigation, it was discovered that neither Madalitso nor Siame held official positions within FAZ. The group allegedly collaborated to acquire 341,902 Zambian kwacha ($13,150, £10,580) from the government for expenses and an additional 99,980 kwacha ($3,850, £3,095) for return flights to Ivory Coast.The DEC states that these fraudulent activities took place between January 1st and February 15th, coinciding with the Nations Cup finals, where Zambia exited at the group stage.A spokesperson for FAZ mentioned that Kamanga’s arrest seemed to be part of a strategy to damage his reputation before the upcoming elections. FAZ is scheduled to hold its annual general meeting in Lusaka this weekend, and the spokesperson reassured that Kamanga’s position as the organization’s president was not immediately threatened.The spokesperson emphasized that Kamanga’s status within FAZ remains secure for now as the arrest is pending court proceedings and a merit evaluation. The DEC added that the suspects are completing bond processes and will soon appear in court.FKF PL Golden Boot Race: Omala, Okello joint top as Kapaito keeps the chase
