ZESCO United FC have suspended head coach Emmanuel Siwale and first assistant Clive Hachilensa with immediate effect as the club undertakes a review of its technical setup following a worrying run of results in the MTN Super League.
The decision comes in the wake of ZESCO’s 1–0 defeat to Mutondo Stars FC, a loss that extended their losing streak to four matches. The result also confirmed the club’s failure to qualify for the 2026 ABSA Cup, adding further pressure on the Ndola-based giants.
In a statement released by the club, management described the suspensions as temporary measures while a comprehensive review of the team’s performance and technical structure is conducted.
Kalengo Appointed Interim Head Coach
Former club striker and ZESCO United legend Winston Kalengo has been appointed interim head coach during the review period. Kalengo will lead a technical team comprised largely of former players who have deep ties with the club.
He will be assisted by Mwape Mwelwa, Jacob Banda, Emmanuel Msichili and Kondwani Mtonga as ZESCO attempts to stabilise its performances.
Kalengo enjoyed a distinguished playing career with the club, winning multiple league titles, finishing twice as the MTN Super League top scorer and being named Zambia’s Footballer of the Year in 2015. His appointment represents a return of club heritage figures to guide the team through a challenging phase.
Club Statement on Technical Changes
The club emphasised that the decisions were taken after careful deliberation and were aimed at safeguarding the interests of stakeholders.
“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,” the statement read.
ZESCO reiterated that it remains committed to restoring competitive standards and maintaining the ambitions associated with one of Zambia’s most successful football institutions.
CEO Kelvin Mutafu Also Leaves Club
In another significant development, the club confirmed that Chief Executive Officer Kelvin Mutafu has been separated from employment just three months after his appointment.
According to the club, the decision followed 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 immediate effect. The termination is due to unsuccessful probation period.”
The club expressed gratitude for Mutafu’s contributions during his brief tenure and wished him well in his future professional endeavors.
Caretaker CEO Appointed
To ensure administrative continuity, James Ngoma has been appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer on a caretaker basis while the club determines its long-term leadership structure.
The twin leadership changes underline the seriousness with which ZESCO United are addressing their current challenges. With the season entering a crucial stage, the interim management team will face the immediate task of restoring stability both on and off the pitch.
ZESCO United’s decision to suspend the coaching staff and part ways with their CEO signals a major restructuring moment for the club. The appointment of Winston Kalengo to lead the technical bench reflects an attempt to reconnect with the club’s heritage while seeking immediate improvements in results. How quickly these changes translate into on-field recovery will likely define the remainder of ZESCO’s season.
