PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS POLITICAL CHANTS AT NKANA STADIUM
11th October, 2026
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has strongly condemned the chanting of political slogans by some individuals during a league match between Nkana FC and Makeni All Stars, played at Nkana Stadium on Saturday, 10th October 2026.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, says the conduct is unacceptable and has no place in sport, which should unite people across political and social divides.
“Sport must not be used as a platform for advancing political agendas. Such conduct undermines the spirit of sport and risks turning football grounds into centres of political confrontation,” Mr. Chileshe says.
He has warned that allowing political activities at football matches could provoke rival groups, thereby creating unnecessary tension and potentially leading to violence. He has stressed that stadiums must remain safe spaces for players, officials and supporters, and that no one should engage in conduct that threatens peace and order at sporting events.
Mr. Chileshe has called on the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), the Zambia Premier League and all football clubs to take firm action by cautioning their supporters, strengthening sensitisation efforts and ensuring that political chants and activities are not tolerated at matches
He says clubs must take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters, and that the incident at Nkana Stadium must not be allowed to set a precedent.
The Permanent Secretary has reiterated that sport is a national asset that must be protected from political interference. He has warned supporters against repeating such behaviour and urged all stakeholders to uphold discipline, respect and sportsmanship, adding that football grounds must remain places where Zambians come together to support their teams, not spaces for political mobilisation or confrontation.
Issued By:
Nchimunya Ng’andu (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts