The decision not only fails to address the root causes of the incident but also imposes unfair and disproportionate penalties on Nkana FC. This article aims to shed light on the detrimental effects of the appeal verdict and the need for a fair and independent disciplinary committee within the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).
Unreasonable Penalties:
The appeal verdict imposed a series of excessive penalties that significantly impact Nkana FC's ability to compete and undermines their strong fan base. Firstly, for the first three months, Nkana FC is forced to play their home games 60 kilometers away from their traditional stadium. This decision not only disrupts their home advantage but also inconveniences the loyal fans who have supported the club for years. Furthermore, once Nkana FC resumes playing at their stadium, their home matches will be played without any fans present. This denies the players the energizing support of their dedicated followers and creates an atmosphere devoid of the passion and excitement that fans bring to the game.
Unfair Burden on Nkana FC:
The penalties imposed on Nkana FC fail to consider the financial constraints faced by the club. Nkana FC has a large following, and many supporters who attend matches are not paid-up members. Holding the club accountable for the misbehavior of a few individuals does not justify punishing the entire institution. Instead, the FAZ should focus on implementing and enforcing stringent security measures, including the effective use of CCTV, to identify and penalize those involved in acts of violence. Placing the burden solely on Nkana FC only exacerbates the club's financial challenges and hampers its ability to grow and thrive.
Lack of Consistency and Transparency:
The appeal verdict highlights the need for an independent disciplinary committee within the FAZ. Numerous incidents in Zambian football have gone unpunished, raising questions about the association's consistency and fairness. Nkana FC seems to be disproportionately targeted with stiff penalties, leading to speculation of bias or personal agendas against the club. To restore faith and trust in the disciplinary process, the FAZ must establish an independent body that can objectively review and address incidents, ensuring consistency and transparency in their decision-making.
Conclusion:
The recent appeal verdict against Nkana FC is a severe blow to Zambian football and raises concerns about fairness and consistency within the Football Association of Zambia. The penalties imposed not only undermine the club's ability to compete but also fail to address the underlying issues that led to the suspension. It is imperative that the FAZ takes immediate action to establish an independent disciplinary committee that can restore integrity and fairness to the sport. By doing so, they can ensure that incidents are appropriately addressed, clubs are supported rather than punished, and Zambian football can thrive in a safe and conducive environment for players and fans alike.
