RUGBY: ZRU drops Ref Mulenga’s case

The Zambia Rugby Union has closed disciplinary proceedings against suspended Zambia Rugby Referees Society Chairman Gordon Mulenga after witnesses in the alleged sexual harassment case withdrew.

In an official statement, ZRU General Secretary Cecilia Tresha said the safeguarding matter was referred to the Disciplinary Committee but could not proceed to a substantive hearing.

“The proceedings could not proceed to a substantive hearing as the witnesses who had initially come forward subsequently withdrew from participating in the process and did not make themselves available to testify,” Tresha said.

With no witnesses to present evidence, the Committee was unable to make a determination on the allegations.

“Consequently, the disciplinary proceedings have been closed on procedural grounds, and Mr Mulenga is no longer subject to suspension in relation to this matter,” she said.

The Union however clarified that Mulenga has not been reinstated as ZRRS Chairman.

ZRU said three of the four ZRRS executive members have resigned, leaving the leadership structure vacant and requiring reconstitution through elections expected within the next 30 days.

“The closure of the proceedings does not constitute reinstatement to his former position as ZRRS Chairman due to the resignations of three of the four members of the Committee,” Tresha said.

Mulenga was suspended in the first quarter of 2026 when this case surfaced.

ZRU reaffirmed its commitment to fair disciplinary procedures, good governance and safeguarding of all participants.