Chamwala wins Malawi Athletics presidency

 Journalist Kondwani Chamwala on Saturday was elected the Malawi Athletics president after defeating Frank Chitembeya by 58 votes to 19 during an elective general assembly at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

The position of first vice-president went to Dennis Phiri who beat fellow retired Francis Munthali 61-16. Malawi University of Science and Technology sports lecturer Ivy Chinangwa is the new second-vice president after winning 59-16 against Bertha Nyangulu.

Nicholas Kanyenda saw off veteran administrator Mzee Makawa 52-15 on secretary general, Charles Senti Banda triumphed over Ken Phiri 51-26 on the vice-general secretary position while Adron Msowoya edged out Drake Chithambo 60-16 to become treasurer.

According to the constitution, regional athletics committees chairpersons become executive members.

In his victory speech, Chamwala said they have work to revamp the association.

“We have been in hills and valleys to reach this far. This team is promising to put the welfare of athletes first and work to win the trust of the corporate world,” he said.

Outgoing president Godfrey Phiri thanked the delegation from CAA-SR for conducting the elections.

Confederation of African Athletics CAA-SR president Zakhele Dlamin has since appealed to the new committee to put the welfare of athletes first.

He said: “There is this African proverb that says when two elephants fight it is the grass that suffers. If you fight unnecessary, it is the athletes that will suffer. If you know you are not competent it is better to quit. Create constitution to be in line with World Athletics.

“World Athletics does not allow government inferences in national federation but at the same time as a federation you are duty bound to respect and govern in accordance with the laws of this country. Comply with directive of [MNCS [Malawi National Council of Sports] as long as in line with the constitution of World Athletics. Submit annual report to MNCS and