Over to you Martha, as Fam reports scandal
Football Association of Malawi (Fam) has finally reported match-fixing allegations to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for investigations.
Whistleblower and suspended Grade One referee Arthur Chilimba alleged that some referees and team officials were involved in match-fixing, prompting Fam to seek ACB’s intervention.
Fam General Secretary Alfred Gunda said they reported the matter to ACB after thoroughly examining Chilimba’s report.
“Chilimba report on match fixing allegations could not just be rushed for reporting to ACB without having the proper basis. It is now up to the ACB to investigate the matter,” he said.
Gunda said Fam was not worried with the outcome of the yet-to-start investigations.
“We have had a cordial working relationship with ACB since 2012 and we are sure they will do a good job,” he said.
Meanwhile, ACB publicist Egritta Ndala has confirmed receiving a complaint from Fam on the matter.
“We are in receipt of the letter from Fam regarding corruption related issues by some football officials and our team will examine it to see whether it is worth pursuing,” she said.
National Football Referees Association (NFRA) General Secretary Chris Kalichelo said they were happy that the report had finally landed in ACB’s hands.
“Let the truth on the matter come out. As an association, we will be happy to see the corrupt officials and referees being named if at all there are any. We do not condone corruption in refereeing,” he said.
Chilimba and another whistle-man Charles Blazio, who is also Grade One Referee, were handed 36 months ban each for soliciting funds from club officials.
Ironically, Chilimba’s planned press briefing, where he was supposed to expose referees and team officials involved in match-fixing, was not held following his meeting with Fam officials two days before the event.
Peter Fote is a Sports Journalist with huge experience in radio and Television reporting, production and presentation. He once worked with Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and is currently working for Times Media Group.
