The Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS) has called for a meeting involving FDH Bank, Football Association of Malawi (Fam) and Super League of Malawi (Sulom) to straighten things following the incident that marred the start of the FDH Bank Premiership season.
This comes after the FDH Bank Premiership opener between Mighty Wanderers and Karonga United failed to take place on April 25, 2026 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre following the impasse between Fam and Sulom on the eligibility of the facility to host elite matches.
Following the incident, sponsors FDH Bank plc suspended all sports sponsorship in the country amounting to K7.5 billion.
In a statement yesterday, Council Board Chairperson Jim Kalua said the incident was regrettable.
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“The Council will convene a physical engagement involving FDH Bank management alongside leadership from Fam and Sulom to collectively address the concerns raised and agree on strengthened operational frameworks going forward,” Kalua said.
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In addition, Kalua also issued a stern warning to all stakeholders that it will not tolerate a similar incident.
“Let me warn [everyone]. The council will not tolerate any repeat of this situation,” he said.
Kalua described the incident as shameful.
“The Council expresses its sincere regret to FDH Bank plc, supporters and all stakeholders for the shortcomings observed during what should have been a flagship fixture showcasing the highest standards of Malawian football. The issues noted fell below the level of organisation and professionalism expected of this stature.
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“In this regard, the council will personally ensure enhanced coordination and alignment between Fam and Sulom. This will focus on improving match day planning, communication and execution to safeguard the integrity of and reputation of the league.”
Last week, Fam and Sulom had a meeting with FDH Bank to continue sponsoring the FDH Bank Premiership.
Fam Operations Director Gomezgani Zakazaka asked for more time to comment on the matter.
“Let us wait for the statement from council,” Zakazaka said.
Sulom president Gilbert Mittawa was not readily available for his comment yesterday.
However, the league governing body apologised to stakeholders including the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, sponsors FDH Bank, Fam and the fans.
Sulom also explained that it took all responsibility for what happened on Saturday.
“Sulom made all the decisions in consideration of the best interests of the game and the value to be given to FDH as a partner, and all stakeholders in the game,” the statement read.
Following the confusion, FDH Bank suspended all sports sponsorship on Sunday last week.
“The unfortunate impasse between Sulom and Fam undermines the commercial viability of our partnerships and negatively impacts FDH Bank plc brand image. In respect of the above, FDH Bank plc has immediately suspended all sports-related sponsorships and activities pending review,” the statement reads.
FDH Bank sponsors the FDH Bank Premiership to the tune of K5 billion for a period of five years-translating to K1 billion per year.
