Govt disappointed with Muzala Samukonga’s conduct of claiming he has not been paid his allowances when in actual fact he has received over K190,000 in allowances
GOVERNMENT is disappointed with sprinter Muzala Samukonga’s conduct of claiming he has not been paid his allowances when in actual fact he has received over K190,000 in allowances his participation at international events.
Samukonga has been on a social media crusade, short of calling Minister of Sport, Arts and Youth Elvis Nkandu and his Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe a liar, for claiming that some athletes were paid allowances.
His crusade received the backing of Copper Queens striker Racheal Kundananji, prompting the National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) to stage a press conference this afternoon.
NSCZ general secretary Sombwa Musunsa has expressed disappointment at the athletes’ conduct and behaviour of dragging government in the mud.
Musunsa said government attaches great importance to the welfare of athletes and cannot neglect sports men and women.
“For instance, we note with concern some unfortunate statements made in recent times by Muzala Samukonga, a 400m specialist who claims that certain payments have not been made by the Ministry.
“To the contrary, Muzala’s daily allowances have been paid for major international events including the just ended Paris Olympic Games. To show you the breakdown, Muzala was paid the following:
“K15,120 for his participation in the 2022 African Championships in Mauritius,
K12, 180 paid as per diem as part of his travel to the USA in 2022, K23,040 paid as daily allowance for the Commonwealth Games, K80,000 as winning bonus or for the bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
“K30, 802 as daily allowance for the 2023 African Games held in Ghana, and
K53, 480 as daily allowance for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” he revealed.
He said In addition, when Muzala was injured in 2023, the Government through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts paid K173, 850 towards his medical bills.
He said that what has not been paid for is money for medals won at some competitions.
“We are aware that there are outstanding payments, and we are committed to ensure these are fully paid before the end of the year. To this end, the Ministry has engaged the Ministry of Finance to facilitate payments,” Musunsa said.
He urged athletes to be patriotic more so that same even serve in the military.
“Furthermore, the Government of Zambia employed Muzala in the Zambia National Service where he continues to draw a monthly salary and enjoying other benefits.
“The Ministry also facilitated the donation of the house that Muzala occupies. After the Paris 2024 Olympics, the government engaged some well-wishers such as Chinese Association in Zambia and Kinglong who have pledged to contribute a sum of $25000 to the athlete.
“We should all show utmost levels of identity, patriotism and love for our dear Country even through sport. This is even more paramount for those in the service like some athletes who have been privileged to serve in the Military. Participation in international competitions is a privilege many do not have,” Musunsa said
(Mwebantu, Wednesday, September 4th, 2024)