Mafuta-Mwale gives up FAM presidency bid

Former Silver Strikers chairperson McDonald Mafuta-Mwale has given up his bid for the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) presidency, citing pressure of work as the reason.

The soccer governing body will this December elect a new president to replace Walter Nyamilandu who has announced that he will not seek re-election having served for 14 years.

Mafuta-Mwale announced in 2017 that he would contest for the FAM presidency, pointing out that his vision was to “make sure Malawi football is well organised and professionally run as business.”

However, in an interview with The Nation yesterday, the director of research and statistics at the Reserve Bank of Malawi, said he has realised that his job is “very demanding”; hence, his decision to quit the race.

“Currently, with my tight work schedule, it will not be possible for me to double as FAM president. Taking that into consideration, it is only fair that I don’t run for the position,” he said.

Vying for the FAM presidency has, over the years, become a tough task as the country has seen renowned administrators failing to convince the affiliates to rally behind them.

Former Super League of Malawi president Henry Chibowa and versatile marketer Wilkins Mijiga are among those that made unsuccessful bids.

Asked if he also found it difficult to woo support the affiliates, Mafuta-Mwale claimed to have done worthwhile mobilisation.

“I approached some of the key affiliates and they were pleased with my bid. I am sure most of them will be disappointed that I have stepped aside,” he said.

Football analyst Charles Nyirenda said it was unfortunate that Mafuta-Mwale has shelved his bid, saying: “He is someone who is focused and an honest administrator.

“This is the calibre of administrators our football needs if we are to develop.” 

He further observed that most people avoid contesting for FAM positions because of the strict rules that govern the elections.

“Dr Mwale might have his reasons, but to be honest enough, the FAM constitution hinders the right people from contesting. Imagine it says for one to contest he must be nominated by the affiliates, the same people with vested interests in the same elections. How can we expect fairness?” Nyirenda said.