FAM blames SULOM for FDH premiership opening chaos
By Suleman Chitera
Malawi’s football governing body, the (FAM), has come out strongly to defend its decision to block the use of , blaming the (SULOM) for defying safety regulations and plunging the into uncertainty.
FAM Launches Dispute Chamber to Fast-Track Football Justice
Speaking during a tense press briefing in , FAM President made it clear: the association will not compromise on safety—even if it means halting high-profile matches.
“Safety First, No Exceptions”
Haiya said FAM’s refusal to clear Kamuzu Stadium for the season opener on April 25, 2026, was based purely on regulatory compliance, not politics or power struggles.
FAM–SULOM Standoff Over Kamuzu Stadium Sparks Fury Ahead of FDH Premiership Kickoff
“We are mandated to protect players, officials, and supporters. The stadium has not yet met the required standards,” he stressed.
The decision led to the shocking failure to kick off the new season, a development that has angered fans and raised serious questions about the management of Malawian football.
FAM Apologises—but Stands Firm
While admitting the situation was embarrassing, Haiya issued a public apology to the government, sponsors , and the football fraternity.
Minister Mhango Assures Landless Families of Relocation Plan
But he refused to back down.
“This is regrettable, yes—but necessary. We cannot risk lives,” he said.
SULOM in the Spotlight
FAM has turned the heat squarely on SULOM, accusing the league organizers of knowingly pushing ahead with plans to use an unapproved venue.
FGRF Reaches 100,000 Families with Ramadan Food Relief Across Malawi
Despite multiple inspections in January and March, FAM had already declared Kamuzu Stadium unfit, a position formalized in a statement released on April 13.
Yet SULOM continued preparations for the opener at the same venue—a move Haiya described as “wrong” and irresponsible.
Now, the league body faces disciplinary action, with FAM confirming it will summon SULOM to explain its conduct.
Ignored Warnings and Missed Alternatives
In a revelation that further exposes the standoff, Haiya disclosed that FAM had engaged key stakeholders—including —ahead of the opener, proposing a shift to Zomba Stadium.
Kamuzu Stadium Gate Cashiers to appears in Court
Both the club and sponsors reportedly showed willingness to relocate the match, but the plan was never implemented.
Stadium Crisis Deepens
Kamuzu Stadium is not the only facility under scrutiny. FAM has also flagged other venues, including Nankhaka and Mzuzu Stadium, as failing to meet required standards.
The development signals a broader infrastructure crisis that could disrupt the entire season if urgent upgrades are not made.
What Next for the FDH Premiership?
With the opening match in limbo and tensions escalating between FAM and SULOM, the future of the 2026 season now hangs in the balance.
Mutharika’s swearing-in to be held at Kamuzu Stadium under theme of proven leadership
Haiya has made one thing unmistakably clear: no stadium will host matches until it passes inspection.
For fans, clubs, and sponsors, the message is equally stark—Malawian football is at a crossroads, and the battle between governance and execution is now fully exposed.
Whether this leads to reform or further chaos will depend on what happens next behind the boardroom doors.
