The Footballers and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (FAWUZ) says lack of players’ representation in decision-making has partly contributed to inconsistent success on the field of play.

FAWUZ general secretary Linos Chalwe said this when he signed an MoU with FAZ that the relationship existing between players and administrators is that of master and servant rather than employee and employer.

Chalwe thus explained that the newly-signed MoU sought to create partnerships between football administrators at club level, national level and players’ representatives.

“Zambia’s lack of consistent success on the field of play commensurate with its talent, and its failure to qualify for the and Africa Cup (of Nations – AfCON), can partly be attributed to the exclusion of players’ representation in decision-making. This MoU is a major step in changing this as it will ensure that there is partnership between football administrators at club level, national level and players’ representatives. Unlike in the past, there will be more consultation in the running of the game with players as they are the key to success. The Union is convinced of the need to find, within the football family in Zambia, comprehensive solutions in response to the challenges and threats that the game faces, which cannot be solved by one institution alone,” said Chalwe.

“The relationship that exists between players and administrators is that of master and servant, rather than employee and employer; the relationship is such that the administrators do not fully understand the needs and aspirations of the players and cannot relate to them. The administrators are well-educated and have been in the corporate world for many years, while the players come from humble beginnings with no education. The FAWUZ through this MoU will engage in educational activities with players and clubs.”