In a momentous turn of events, Fleetwood Haiya, a stalwart of Malawi football, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the presidency of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM).
Scheduled for December 16, 2023, the electoral showdown in Mzuzu will see Haiya take on the incumbent, Walter Nyamilandu, in a bid to reshape the landscape of Malawi football.
Haiya’s announcement came during a press conference held at the Grand Place Hotel in Mzuzu on November 5, 2023. His decision to vie for the FAM presidency was rooted in a thorough examination of relevant factors and a heartfelt acceptance of the call from affiliates and Malawians at large, who recognize in him the potential to serve as a transformative leader.
“I seek to bring dedicated, transparent, inclusive, competent, and people-centered leadership to develop, sustain, and safeguard the future of our game,” Haiya declared during the press conference.
“A collective duty to re-orient the state of our football into a strong and competitive footballing nation requires an accomplished football acumen and drive that places the interest of our game over and beyond personal interests and gains.”
Haiya’s candidacy has gained substantial momentum, with five key nominations from influential delegates representing the electoral college at Mpira House.
These endorsements include the Northern Region Football Association, Beach Soccer Association of Malawi, Referees Association, Super League of Malawi, and the National Coaches Association.
The incumbent, Walter Nyamilandu, has held the reins of FAM for a staggering 19 years, creating an opportunity for Fleetwood Haiya to position himself as the fresh face and dynamic leader needed to rejuvenate the football association.
As the current President of the Super League of Malawi, Haiya has already showcased his administrative prowess, having been elected to the position in February 2023.
Fleetwood Haiya’s journey in football administration has been nothing short of transformative. Notably, at Nyasabig Bullets, he assumed leadership when the team was not performing at its peak.
Under his guidance, Nyasabig Bullets underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, transitioning from a mid-tier soccer team to a perennial achiever in the country’s top football league.
Haiya’s managerial acumen brought consistent success as Nyasabig Bullets clinched the league title in every season under his leadership.
Beyond domestic triumphs, he propelled the team onto the continental stage, where Nyasabig Bullets represented Malawi with distinction.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Haiya has been appointed as the acting Vice Chairperson of the Peoples Team.
The forthcoming FAM election is not just a contest of individuals; it symbolizes a call for change, a plea for fresh perspectives and innovative leadership.
Fleetwood Haiya is positioning himself as the catalyst for this transformation, emphasizing the need for a breath of fresh air within the football association.
As the countdown to December 16th begins, Malawi football enthusiasts and stakeholders anticipate a riveting contest that could redefine the trajectory of the nation’s footballing future.
Fleetwood Haiya emerges not only as a candidate but as a beacon of change, a seasoned administrator ready to navigate the challenges and lead Malawi football into a new era of excellence.
