Lwanja to challenge referees GS Kalichero at NFRA polls: Chair Kapanga to go unopposed
The main highlight of elections at the forthcoming National Football Referees Association (NFRA) AGM slated for October 15 in Lilongwe will be a contest between body’s outgoing general secretary Chris Kalichero, who is vying for re-election and renowned FIFA referees instructor Verson Lwanja.
Lwanja is the challenger while Kalichero is seeking re-election on the position of General Secretary.
Both Lwanja and Kalichero confirmed in an interview about their contention.
“It is true that I am contesting for the position of General Secretary at the National Football Referees Association General Elections,” said Lwanja.
While applauding his counterpart for his tireless efforts during his four year tenure of office, Lwanja said he is more advanced because he has vast experience in football officiation.
“The standards of officiation here at home have gone down so we need to improve by bringing in technocrats. We need a General Secretary who knows football well and can share knowledge and experience to other upcoming referees rather than concentrating on taking on board people who only passes fitness test but doesn’t know football rules,” said Lwanja.
He, however, admitted it will not be easy to beat Kalichero.
“It won’t be easy but I will try as much as possible to convince the voters with my manifestation and give them a choice,” he said.
On his part, Kalichero said he is not afraid of Lwanja.
“I don’t think he is a strong challenger but simply because we are living in a democractic society, he is free to contest. I have contributed alot including making sure we have Grade 1 FIFA referees as well as having qualified referees in all the regions including lower league.” said Kalichero.
Meanwhile, NFRA Chairperson Patrick Kapanga and Treasurer Kelvin Ngulanga are expected to go unopposed as no one has expressed interest to challenge them.
If handed the new mandate, Kapanga will be in the position for a third-term.
In the vice-chairperson race, incumbent Alex Mbale will tussle with Billy Yaluma and KalyotoNgosi.
Those hunting for the vice-general secretary’s office are OpaMkandawire, Simon Jovinala and incumbent LusunguMtumbula.
Meanwhile, Joseph Nyirongo, ChuchuGondwe, Funny Minandi and Noel Kalande will have to defend their seats as executive members against Benito Chilola, FestonKusekuse, Oscar Kossam and Devine Khaula.
The new committee will serve office for four years as stipulated in the National Football Referees Constitution.
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