At this stage, Super League of Malawi (Sulom) President Fleetwood Haiya is the front runner in the race for Football Association of Malawi (Fam) presidency after he secured five nominations ahead of the polls slated for December 16 in Mzuzu.
Incumbent Fam President Walter Nyamilandu has three nominations, so far.
As of Sunday morning, Haiya had secured nominations from Sulom, Northern Region Football Association (NRFA), National Football Coaches Association (NFCA), National Referees and Beach Soccer Association (BSA) whereas Nyamilandu got nominations from Central Region Football Association (CRFA), Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) and National Youth Football Association.
The National Women’s Football Association (NWFA) was yet to present its nominations.
Both Haiya and Nyamilandu have already declared their interest in contesting ahead of the polls.
Haiya announced last week in Mzuzu that his vision is to transform Malawi football.
“I have a desire to offer our beloved game renewed hope, vision and purpose. I seek to bring dedicated, transparent, inclusive, competent and people-centred leadership to develop, sustain and safeguard the future of our game,” Haiya is quoted as saying.
He is expected to unveil his blueprint soon.
On his part, Nyamilandu said he would seek re-election for the “final term” to bridge the gap in domestic football.
“I would like to state clearly that I am seeking re-election for the last time to complete my work as a final term of my presidency with Fam,” the Fam head said last week.
Madalitso Kuyera and James Mwenda have earned nominations for the Fam first vice presidency whereas Lameck Nkhonje and Othaniel Hara will compete for the post of second vice president.
Felistus Dossi and Mervis Mangulenje earned nominations for the post of female representative. Muhamad Selemani, Alfred Kapanga, Chimango Munthali, Chancy Gondwe and Raphael Humba have secured nominations as Fam Executive Committee members.
Sports analyst George Kaudza Masina said the battle to Chiwembe is too early to call.
“The race is still wide open. Yes, Haiya has won the first round, namely nominations, but voting is something else. What matters most are the actual delegates and the game of numbers is about to kick off,’’ Kaudza Masina said.
The nominated candidates will be announced on November 21.
