Minister Condemns Sakala-Grant Dispute as Detrimental Scam

Minister Condemns Sakala-Grant Dispute as Detrimental Scam

Recent allegations of a standoff between Zambian striker Fashion Sakala and national team coach Avram Grant have been met with stern condemnation from government officials. Elvis Nkandu, the Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, has branded these claims as detrimental to the progress of football in Zambia.

“Zambia is bigger than any individual; people may differ but let’s look at a bigger picture,” emphasized Minister Nkandu, urging stakeholders to prioritize national interests over personal disputes.

Addressing the seriousness of the situation, Nkandu emphasized the potential repercussions on the country’s football landscape if Sakala’s claims were proven true. “If what Sakala said is true, then the coach needs to think twice,” he asserted.

Furthermore, Minister Nkandu underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to sports development, despite financial constraints. He expressed concern over the possible waste of national resources, stating, “We will not tolerate any individual who may pull us down and yet we are pumping in millions of kwacha into football.”

Highlighting the need for unity and cooperation within the football community, Nkandu urged all involved parties to recognize the broader context and align their efforts with Zambia’s sporting aspirations. “Everyone who is managing sport should understand that we have competing needs,” he emphasized, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in achieving collective goals.