By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Former National Youth Football Association Chairperson and Football Association of Malawi Executive Committee Member, Chimango Munthali has broken his silence regarding his relationship with Football Association of Malawi (FAM) President Fleetwood Haiya.
The sports community, including various administrators, has been speculating that the two are not in good terms despite their joint victory in the FA December elections in Mzuzu.
Munthali was a close ally of former FA President Walter Nyamilandu during his last two terms in office, sharing many significant moments together.
During the electoral process, the National Youth Football Association did not nominate Fleetwood Haiya, instead supporting the incumbent President Nyamilandu. However, in the December elections, Haiya defeated Nyamilandu by a landslide at Mzuzu’s Sunbird Hotel. Contrary to what many expected, Munthali also secured a seat on the executive committee.
The journey of transforming the game began under Haiya and his team, with people speculating behind their backs about their relationship. However, in a recent interview on TIME TV’s “Mtedza Mtedza” hosted by Peter Fote, Munthali clarified that there are no misunderstandings between him and President Haiya.
“Firstly, let me say that Haiya is a gentleman because defeating Walter Nyamilandu wasn’t as simple as many might have thought. Secondly, we have a very good working relationship. When I am given a role, I perform it professionally and report to the President,” said Munthali.
“I believe in telling the truth. During the elections, I met Haiya, wished him all the best, but told him I was supporting Walter Nyamilandu. Haiya has a passion for the sport and I appreciate his intent to promote women’s football. That’s great.”
“Nyamilandu gave me the opportunity to grow in football administration and still provides guidance when necessary. Elections are long over; it’s time to work for the game’s development. My relationship with Fleetwood Haiya is great; he knew my stance before the elections,” Munthali told Fote.
President Fleetwood Haiya and Chimango Munthali were recently seen together with happy faces during the HTD Beach Soccer finals in Mangochi District.
