Government rejects Kinnah’s request for unpaid leave

Malawi Government has rejected an application for an unpaid leave for its regional football development officer for the North, Kinnah Phiri.

Kinnah, who is assistant coach at Free State Stars, was in the country recently. He is reported to have applied for a six-month leave of absence, but Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports Justin Saidi said according to government conditions of service, it is unacceptable for him to apply for leave.

“He is on contract that means he has specific responsibilities, therefore, it is unacceptable for him to apply for an unpaid leave.

“In such circumstances, there is a procedure that has to be followed and he has been advised accordingly. In the event that he insists on working for the South African team, then we will refer the matter to the Human Resources Department,” said Saidi.

Kinnah could not be reached for comment in South Africa where he has been hired to save the struggling side from relegation.

He recently confirmed through the club’s website having started his new role, saying he was delighted to be back at the club.

“Bethlehem is like a second home to me,” Kinnah told the website.

Recently, Saidi said government laws do not allow its employee to have another job.

The former Flames coach, who took up his new role under interim coach Themba Sithole, had two previous stints at the club—one of which he steered it to a fifth-place finish in the league.