FAM presidency gets 3rd hopeful

While incumbent Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu insists he is undecided on seeking re-election, the association’s former vice-president Moses Mkandawire has joined the soccer governing body’s presidential race.

The Mzuzu-based Mkandawire joins incumbent first vice-president James Mwenda and Karonga United FC chairperson Alufeyo Chipanga Banda who declared interest to vie for the top post at the FAM elective annual general meeting in December.

Expressing his interest in an interview on Wednesday, Mkandawire said time has come that the leadership of the game in the country should change.

He said he is ready to turn around things by bringing in winning national football teams.

He said being an experienced football administrator, he knows where to press the buttons  to develop the sport.

“After thorough consultation, it is okay that I can go ahead to contest for the position of FAM president. You are aware that I am an experienced football administrator,” he said.

Mkandawire said he has already approached some affiliates who have assured him of full support.

“The good thing is that the call was made by affiliates themselves. I feel it is important I come in to correct things on the ground,” he said.

Mkandawire said he will also ensure that players are provided with all the benefits they deserve, including medical cover.

“The current situation leaves a lot to be desired as far as players’ welfare is concerned. We need to change that.

“Upon being elected the FAM president, I will make sure that players at club and national team  levels are provided with medical cover and pension scheme so that if they retire from active football, they should claim such funds,” he said.

Mkandawire did not vie for any position during the previous FAM polls that took place in 2015 in Mangochi after serving as FAM first vice-president for two terms.

He said he was too busy that time for a FAM role.

In an interview yesterday, Nyamilandu insisted that he is still contemplating whether to seek re-election.

On what he makes of Mkandawire’s interest, he said it is up to the affiliates to make the final decision who to vote for.

“The right people to comment more on that are affiliates. They are the ones to decide on whom to vote for,” Nyamilandu said.

Mwenda described Mkandawire’s declaration as good for the sport.

“Moses Mkandawire, just like any other Malawian, has then right to contest. I have a lot of respect for him and I wish him all the best.

“If you see high-profile people, it tells it all that football is developing.”

Soccer analyst George Kaudza Masina said Mkandawire is another capable person who has brought competition to the list of the candidates that have so far expressed interest in the FAM hot seat.

“Moses Mkandawire is an experienced football administrator. He knows the system. He will provide good competition for the post at the elections,” he said.

On his part, former Flames international Peterkins Kayira urged affiliates to provide space to all interested candidates for the FAM posts.

“My appeal is to affiliates to accommodate every candidate coming to them so that we should have competitors in each post,” he said.