Banned referee to spill beans
Malawi’s football reputation will likely be thrown in the bin after suspended Grade One Referee Arthur Chilimba threatened to expose referees and club officials who are involved in match-fixing.
Chilimba, who was slapped with 36-month [three-year] ban for soliciting funds, said he would hold a press briefing in Lilongwe on Friday to reveal culprits of match fixing.
“This thing [match fixing] happens. I will expose everyone including referees and club officials who are involved in this practice. There are a lot of club officials and referees doing this,” he said.
When queried that his reaction was based on bitterness following his ban, Chilimba said it was important for the nation to know who are the main culprits.
“I asked for K2,000 from him not because of the game. He is a friend and he could assist me anytime. I think he was bitter that his side got booted out of the cup,” said Chilimba, who was suspended for allegedly soliciting funds from Civil United Team Manager Gabriel Chirwa.
Initially, Chirwa exposed Chilimba after Civil were denied what was deemed as a clear goal and had a decent penalty appeal turned down before bowing out of the FDH Cup to Premier Division side Sable Farming on penalties.
National Football Referees Association General Secretary Chris Kalichero said Chilimba did not exist in their books.
“That guy should not be given an audience,” Kalichero asked.
Football Association of Malawi (Fam) General Secretary Alfred Gunda said they promote structured approach to matters involving the game.
“Arthur [Chilimba] is grieved and what is important is for him to engage the structures to look at the concerns he has. What is important is to tackle the problem and get a solution for the good of the game now and, indeed, the future,” Gunda said.
Super League of Malawi (Sulom) President Tiya Somba Banda said they welcome any move that will in turn improve the integrity of football and competition in the country.
“As for now, we await to hear his expose and will pick it from there,” he said.
