New FAM President Vows to "Transform the Game"
Nyamilandu was FAM president for a world record 19 years after claiming victory in the 2004, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2019 elections.
MZUZU, Malawi- Fleetwood Haiya has been elected as the new president of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) after defeating incumbent Walter Nyamilandu in an election on Saturday, writes Winston Mwale.
Haiya received 23 votes compared to Nyamilandu's 13 from the delegates. Nyamilandu had led FAM since 2004.
"It's a big thank you to all the affiliates for the trust they have placed in me for my election to FAM president. To all the stakeholders who offered unflinching support, we say thank you. Let's now transform the game together," Haiya said after his victory.
The newly-elected FAM president said Saturday was a "defining moment for football in Malawi" in his inaugural speech at the Sunbird Mzuzu Hotel.
He committed to serving all without "fear or favor" and promised to "transform the game by being transparent and accountable."
"It is my solemn pledge that I will not betray this valuable trust," Haiya added.
He applauded outgoing president Nyamilandu for laying a "strong foundation for football development" in Malawi and said he hoped Nyamilandu would be available for counsel as FAM seeks to transform the sport.
Haiya appealed to the new FAM executive to "get right to work" because there is "no honeymoon."
He concluded by urging peaceful co-existence and responsible celebration by all winners.
Nyamilandu was FAM president for a world record 19 years after claiming victory in the 2004, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2019 elections.
He oversaw Malawi's return to the Africa Cup of Nations continental tournament twice during his tenure, after a 20-year absence.