Draughts association fears ban
Association of Draughts in Malawi (ADMA) fears an international ban after failing to send national champion Ganizani Majawa to the World Draughts Championships that begin this weekend in Russia.
The International Draughts Federation (IDF) offered to foot Majawa’s return air ticket, accommodation and food at the event, but ADMA failed to source about K1.5 million (about $3 750) required for the official that was to accompany the athlete to the event after the Sports Council turned down their request for the funds.
The championships could have been Malawi’s first-ever participation in an international competition since the sport was registered with the council in January.
According to ADMA general secretary Suzgo Nkhoma, the body might be given a three-year ban from international participation and get K175 000 ($500) fine for their failure to honour the IDF’s invitation.
“We are just keeping our fingers crossed to see if our apology to the IDF is accepted. Otherwise, we are now in deep trouble,” Nkhoma said.
He said their request for funds to the council hit a snag at an eleventh hour after receiving a reply that they should concentrate on local development of the sport rather than pushing for early participation in international events.
The council’s email response to ADMA read: “We would like to inform you that the council is unable to assist you. At this stage of development, ADMA should concentrate on local development of the sport as this will benefit many people than spending so much money on one athlete.”
