Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has beaten FIFA deadline to pass new laws in line with the world’s football governing body’s statutes.
The draft constitution received an overwhelming backing, with 309 members out of a possible 320 voting to pass it at today’s Annual General Meeting held at the New Government Complex, Lusaka.
A minimum threshold of 240 votes is required to adopt a new constitution.
FAZ had up-to the end of this month to align their laws with FIFA’s or they face a ban.
Of interest is Article 3.2 of the new laws, which prohibits any forms of discrimination. Zambian laws expressly legalize homosexuality.
“The revised text dropped reference to discrimination based on sexual orientation under article 3.2, taking into consideration Zambian law which criminalises homosexuality.
“Article 3.2 guarantees that a country, private person or group of people shall not be discriminated against on account of race, skin, color, national or social origin, gender, language, political opinion or any other opinion, wealth, birth or any other status,” FAZ clarified the sticky issue.
There have been fears that FAZ would go against the country’s laws by granting such freedoms and with adoption of Article 3.2 the jury is out as above.
Moses Mawere, the minister of youth, sport and child development, who was present at the meeting, gave the whole process a thumb of approval.
“I am hopeful that you will emerge more united than ever before for the sake of football development and our motherland Zambia.”
FAZ boss Mr. Andrew Kamanga reiterated that the matter of new constitution could not be delayed any further.
“It is decision that we have had to put off for a long time and now is an hour where it cannot wait longer.”
