Zodiak, Joy TV propose FA Malawi presidential debate with Nyamilandu, challengers

Joy TV and Zodiak Broadcasting Station have reached out to incumbent Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Mac Millan Walter Nyamilandu and his growing list of challengers to propose a television debate ahead of December 18 elections.

Nyamilandu seeks a fourth four-year term and is facing challenge from golfer and prominent lawyer John Gift Mwakhwawa, Owen Chomanika, Ali Mwachande, Kelvin M’mangisa and Wilkins Mijiga.

Joy station manager Lloyd Zawanda is proposing debate that would be aired live on Joy television and radio which would include audience questions and football fans.

Zawanda said Joy believes the live public pre-election debate would present Nyamilandu and his challengers “an unprecedented opportunity” to set out their plans and communicate directly with fans.

Zodiak managing director Gospel Kazako said on their part they plan to host an unprecedented red-carpet debate for the presidential aspirants this October 31 at Bingu International Conference Centre in Lilongwe.

“The whole nation must hear why these candidates are interested in the position in a live debate” Kazako said

Kazako said Zodiak will work hand in hand with several stakeholders, including the Sports Writers Association (Swam).

For FAM presidency Nyamilandu is viewed as the overwhelming favorite to win and other candidates face eligibility pitfalls

According to FAM legal subcommittee chairperson Jabbar Alide, candidates must have served in mainstream football administration at FAM affiliate level for five consecutive years prior to elections to stand as a requirement stipulated in FAM constitution.

That would render Mwakhwawa and Mijiga ineligible but the two have premised their presidential aspirations, which are subject to being nominated by the affiliates, on having served in FAM subcommittees for competitions and discipline, among others.