Fama finals cancellation costs BB over K300 000
Bullets were supposed to face Blue Eagles at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe but the game was cancelled late on Friday due to the death of the State president Bingu wa Mutharika last Thursday.
By the time Fama announced the cancellation, Bullets had already arrived in Lilongwe for the match.
“We were notified of the cancellation while already in Lilongwe with the team. We spent over K300 000 [about $1 800] in accommodation, food and transport.
“However, the reason for the cancellation was valid, but we are feeling the pinch since this is hard-earned money as we do not have sponsors,†said Bullets vice-general secretary Higger Mkandawire in an interview yesterday.
To ease the expenses, Fama gave Bullets 80 litres of diesel to enable them travel back to Blantyre.
Fama organizing Secretary Japhet Majakete acknowledged the inconvenience caused to Bullets, but said the issue was beyond their control.
“It was difficult for us to notify Bullets in time because the announcement of the former State president’s death was made a bit late.
“However, when they got here, we had talks with them and they did understand the situation. It was beyond all of us. We discussed their problems and gave them 80 litres of diesel for their trip back to Blantyre,†Majakete said.
Meanwhile, the finals have been rescheduled and will take place on Sunday, April 29 in Lilongwe. The venue has not changed according to Majakete.
Both Bullets and Fama have expressed sadness at the death of Mutharika whom they said was committed to developing sports in the country, as evidenced by the introduction of Presidential Initiative for Sports (PIS).
