FAM and SULOM resolve differences
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) and the Super League of Malawi (SULOM) have resolved their differences, ending weeks of tension in a development widely viewed as a positive step for Malawian football.
The issues between the two football bodies were discussed and settled during FAM’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at Sunbird Livingstonia Beach in Salima on Saturday.
Ahead of the AGM, reports had suggested that FAM was considering dissolving SULOM, while tensions escalated after the association invited all Premier League clubs to attend the meeting. SULOM objected to the move, arguing that the clubs fall under its jurisdiction rather than FAM’s.
Despite expectations of a lengthy and heated discussion, the meeting concluded after just one and a half hours, surprising many delegates.
FAM president Fleetwood Haiya said both organisations had agreed to put their differences behind them and avoid discussing internal matters through the media.
“As the Football Association of Malawi, we are not in a fight with anyone. As the mother body, we will never be in competition with any of our affiliates,” Haiya said.
He added that both parties recognised that some individuals were attempting to create unnecessary divisions between FAM and SULOM.
Going forward, Haiya said the two organisations had agreed to address any concerns internally rather than through public statements.
SULOM president Gilbert Mitawa also confirmed that the dispute had been resolved and stressed the importance of unity for the development of the game.
“I can confirm that we have resolved all our differences between us and FAM, and now we need to move Malawi football forward,” Mitawa said.
The reconciliation is expected to strengthen cooperation between the country’s football governing body and its top-flight league administrators as they work towards the continued growth and development of football in Malawi.
