Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 5th April 2025
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a decisive move to resolve the impasse surrounding the Zambia Athletics (ZA) elections, the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting aimed at restoring order and ensuring a credible electoral process.
The session, held on Friday, 4th April 2025, at the Minister’s office, brought together an array of pivotal figures, including former members of the now-dissolved ZA Executive Committee, aspiring office-bearers, senior ministry officials, and sports governance authorities. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sport; Mr. Fumba Chama, Permanent Secretary for Arts; NSCZ CEO Mr. Sombwa Musunsa; and other senior officials from the Ministry.
This engagement followed the earlier cancellation of the 2025 ZA elections by the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ), citing procedural irregularities. Determined to ensure a transparent and inclusive process, stakeholders collectively adopted a series of resolutions designed to pave the way for a smooth and fair electoral exercise.
Key resolutions from the meeting included:
- Election Date Confirmed: The ZA elections are set to take place on 12th April 2025.
- Support for Participation: To guarantee broad representation, the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts will provide transport and accommodation support for all delegates.
- Enhanced Electoral Integrity: The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) will oversee the election process, including the printing of ballot papers, to uphold the highest standards of transparency and credibility.
- Transparency in the Electoral College: The complete Electoral College list will be made accessible to all candidates, clubs, and Provincial Area Boards prior to the election, ensuring openness and accountability.
- Coordinated Election Preparation: The NSCZ will work closely with the ZA Secretariat to facilitate seamless logistical and administrative preparations for the elections.
All participating candidates welcomed the resolutions and affirmed their commitment to contesting the elections within the agreed framework.
Minister Nkandu underscored the need for unity and respect for institutional protocols, urging members to address grievances through internal mechanisms rather than public platforms. He also called for inclusivity, encouraging ZA to welcome back previously expelled members in the spirit of reconciliation and progress. The Minister reaffirmed the New Dawn Government’s unwavering focus on advancing athletics in Zambia, emphasizing that internal divisions should not derail the development of the sport.
The Agency.