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| No amount of intimidation can shut me up - Mumba |
By Mike Mubanga
Keagan Mumba is probably one of the football victims that is hated for speaking the truth.
In this 21st century, there has been a lot of politics in football than there is in politics itself, and people like Keagan have fallen victims of such unfortunate developments.
When Keagan was suspended on labour day May 2013 for bringing the name of the game into gross disrepute, I was one of those keen followers of football that did not get shocked by the decision.
Mumba attacked former Zambia coach Herve Renard’s 2014 CHAN qualifiers and 2013 Cosafa Cup nationwide trials that he described as moribund, and that landed the man into hot soup by FAZ.
But critically hearing the matter at hand, you will agree with me that the three month suspension on the 2012 FAZ/MTN coach of the year was HARSH.
Harsh because his comments were rather fair, and fall in the category of 'calling a spade a spade and NOT a big spoon'.
Nevertheless, the ban was served and there he was in August, back on the touchline.
In his comeback speech, Mumba maintained that he would not stop speaking his mind, and vowed never to keep quite if someone tripped on him.
Throughout the ban, Keagan grew stronger and stronger, and I could see a person becoming more determined and eager to avoid people shutting him up anyhow.
And that statement was practically used in October, when he was doing what he does best, speaking for the less confident and shy guys.
Mumba was VERBALLY suspended for insurbodination by Zanaco chairperson Edward Mutale.
This is not the first time he is clashing with individuals.
Have we forgotten the April 2012 showdown when Mumba and FAZ technical director Honour Janza were in a near punch-up at Football House?
For those of you who do not remember, Mumba merely asked Janza to choose between staying on as FAZ technical director or as Herve Renard’s number two.
That was a big issue, and a fist of fury almost erupted, as Mumba bravely demanded an explanation on Janza’s dual roles.
His success on and off the field of play has been dented by one thing, hatred.
In a nutshell, I feel 2012 National Sports Council of Zambia Coach of the year has been victimised by people that lie to themselves that he is their friend and vice-versa.
Mumba has deservedly earned the status of being one of the best local coaches we've had in Zambia.
He has won personal, club and national accolades due to his unquestioned commitment and hard work to duty.
This season, I do don't think Keagan will defend the league title with Zanaco, but his work ethic towards improving local football has been tremendous.
Having won the title last season, I would advice Keagan to change goalposts and look for a club that can accommodate divergent views.
If he says he's not free in expressing himself, let him see off the contract which ends in January 2014 so that he can start a new life elsewhere.
In signing out, I offer no support nor apologies to those that keep quite when confronted with sensitive matters that have a direct bearing in their football management.
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