Fifa to send two reps for FAM polls
World football governing body Fifa has delegated two representatives to observe the December 12 Football Association of Malawi (FAM) elective annual general meeting (AGM) at Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi.
FAM general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda said Fifa development officer for Southern Africa, Ashford Mamelodi, is expected in the country within the week alongside Fifa manager of member associations and development division Alexander Gros.
He said: “The two high-profile Fifa officials will be among the 100 individuals, comprising 36 delegates and invited observers, that will attend the AGM.
The FAM GS the list of people that will make it into the assembly’s hall also includes 10 invited observers, especially those on the candidates’ roster, at least 20 reporters, whose credibility will be vetted first. Three members of the appeals committee will also be there.
“Observers will not be allowed to vote as such right only belongs to delegates from FAM affiliates. Some members of FAM affiliates that are also candidates will be considered as observers if their bodies do not put them on the list of accredited delegates,” he said.
He also warned hooligans to keep away from the venue of the elections because there will be water-tight security detail to ensure free, fair and credible elections. 25 policemen and 25 stewards will be deployed.
“There will be three checking points where delegates and invited observers will pass through before getting into the assembly and polling hall. We have to emphasise that everyone will be thoroughly searched. We learned a lot at the previous elections and we do not want a repeat. All candidates need to tell their supporters not to be within the premises,” Nyirenda said.
FAM has also invited Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chief elections officer Willy Kalonga to observe the elections while private practice lawyer Ian Malera will be a notary, someone responsible for verifying the delegates and take minutes when FAM executive is dissolved. n
