FAZ President Kamanga Charged with Money Laundering

Andrew Kamanga, president of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has been arrested and charged with money laundering offences. Also arrested are FAZ deputy Reuben Kamanga and two other individuals identified as Jairous Siame and Madalitso Kamanga.

In an announcement by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), the four face several charges, including conspiracy to defraud, obtaining pecuniary advantage by false pretence, and obtaining money by false pretence.

The DEC found that between 1st January and 15th February 2024 the suspects obtained K341,902 from the government under false pretence, namely as allowances for Madalitso Kamanga and Jairous Siame to attend the Africa Cup of Nations last year. The funds were split between the individuals, who each received K170,951. Despite this, neither Madalitso Kamanga or Jairous Siame held official positions within FAZ.

A spokesperson for FAZ said Andrew Kamanga's arrest was "part of a long-term plan to bring [into] question" his reputation ahead of the governing body's elections in 2025. "There is no immediate risk of Mr Kamanga being out of FAZ because this is just an arrest and the matter has to go to court—if at all there is any merit,"

In a statement, the DEC said the arrests show its “unwavering commitment to combating money laundering offenses within Zambia. The recent joint charges against Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) officials and associated individuals demonstrate the DEC’s dedication to upholding the law and preserving the integrity of financial systems.”

The suspects are finalising bond processes and will appear in court soon.