Presidential Cup final shifted to Lilongwe, fears for Kamuzu Stadium safety
In a turn twist of events, the much talked 2012-2013 Presidential Cup finals between Big Bullets and Moyale Barracks, which was slated on Sunday, August, 26, 2012 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre has been shifted to Civo Stadium in Lilongwe on 1 September, 2012.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, which was signed by the secretary for youth and sports, Justin Saidi, the postponement has been necessitated following rumors and complaints from a section of supporters and the general public that some of the open stadium stands are not in good condition.
Saidi stressed that as a precautionary measure, it has been decided that an independent structural Engineer be engaged in the shortest possible time to make a thorough assessment of the facility.
“Until such time, the facility shall remain closed,” the statement said, adding “Any inconvenient caused arising from this postponement is sincerely regretted.”
Big Bullets Chairman Malinda Chinyama has said his club has no problem with shifting the match to the capital city because it concerns the people’s safety.
“As Big Bullets we have no any problem in shifting the game to Civo Stadium because we have been informed that it involves people’s safety as some open stands need to be assessed,” said Malinda.
He however asked government to reconsider their earlier decision that people should not enter free to the match.
“As you are aware that Civo Stadium is too small, we ask government that people pay something as one measure to control crowd because we know people will travel from different districts to watch this encounter at in Lilongwe,” he said.
Moyale Barracks coach Nicholous Mhango said the club is pleased that his Mzuzu based side will be facing the soccer power house Bullets in the finals away from their Blantyre base.
“Lilongwe is a neutral venue for all of us and we will be happy to play the finals there,” he said.
Presidential Football Cup is in the Presidential Initiatives in Sports which was initiated as a talent Identification programme.
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