Zambia: ZESCO United sack CEO, suspend coaches amid poor performances

Zambian giants ZESCO United have made sweeping changes within the club following a disappointing run of results in both domestic and continental competitions.

In a bold move that goes beyond the usual scrutiny of the technical team, the ABSA Cup holders have parted ways with their chief executive officer, Kelvin Mutafu, while also suspending members of the coaching staff.

In an official statement, the club confirmed that Mutafu’s tenure has come to an immediate end after an unsuccessful probation period.

“ZESCO United Football Club wishes to inform its stakeholders and the public that the Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kelvin Mutafu, has been separated from employment service with the Club with immediate effect. The termination is due to an unsuccessful probationary period,” reads part of the statement.

“The club appreciates Mr Mutafu for his service and contributions made during his tenure with the Club and wishes him well in his future professional endeavours.”

Following his departure, James Ngoma has been appointed as acting CEO.

The shake-up also extends to the technical bench, where head coach Emmanuel Siwale and first assistant coach Clive Hachilensa have been suspended as part of an ongoing review of the club’s performance and technical structure.

“Further, the following changes have been made to the technical bench. Head Coach Emmanuel Siwale and First Assistant Coach Clive Hachilensa have temporarily been suspended with immediate effect. The suspension follows the ongoing review of the team’s technical setup and club performance,” adds the statement.

“During this period, the technical bench will be led by Winston Kalengo, Mwape Mwelwa, Jacob Banda, Emmanuel Mschili and Kondwani Mtonga. The decisions have been made after careful considerations and in the best interest of stakeholders.”

Mathews Ndhlovu, who had been listed as head coach for ZESCO’s CAF Confederation Cup matches due to his CAF A-Licence — a requirement under club licensing regulations — holds the official role of senior coach.

Pressure on the technical team has intensified in recent weeks following a string of poor performances in the MTN Super League and the CAF Confederation Cup.

Ndhlovu was in charge when ZESCO United suffered a 3-1 defeat to league leaders Red Arrows on Sunday, their third straight league loss. The result left the ABSA Cup champions in 11th place on the table, trailing the leaders by 18 points.

The disappointing domestic form follows their recent exit from the CAF Confederation Cup at the group stage, further fueling frustration among supporters and raising questions about the club’s direction.