By Naomi Nyawali in South Africa
Zambia’s celebrated football icon Kalusha Bwalya says the reprieve of his two year ban by FIFA appeals committee will allow him make positive contribution to football administration.
Kalusha said he is happy that the truth has prevailed although under difficult circumstances.
The 1998 Africa footballer of the year said his initial two year ban from football administration was unimaginable as it prevented him from doing what he loves most.
He said the period of his suspension was a difficult period for him and his family including people that have supported his football career.
The Great Kalu said the earlier decision by FIFA to suspend him from football activities came as a shock to him, owing to the fact he had never faced any disciplinary action during his entire footballing life.
He said that he was confident that the truth would prevail despite the stigma that is associated with Africans.
“I was confident that the truth in the end would prevail, but you never know because there are so many things that can influence a decision and also coming from Africa, there is a lot of stigma that comes with it,” Kalusha said.
He has since thanked the FIFA appeals committee for having listened to his case favorably.
The Great Kalu also expressed his gratitude to government officials, football administrators, football players and his former playmates for giving him strength and comfort during his suspension.
“I am glad it’s over and I can get on with doing what I love the most and that is being involved in football, and making a positive difference. Football is my life,” he said.
The football icon was speaking in Johannesburg, South Africa, in the aftermath of FIFA appeals committee reprieving his two year ban which was slapped on him following allegation of impropriety by the world’s football governing body.
