Football fraternity mourns former FAM veep Hara
The football fraternity is mourning the death of former Football Association of Malawi (FAM) second vice-president Othaniel Hara who died on Saturday night in a road accident at Edundu in Mzuzu.
Mzuzu Police Station spokesperson Augustus Nkhwazi confirmed the news saying the deceased, who was driving, lost control of the vehicle.
He said: “Hara was driving a motor vehicle registration number BR 7252 Toyota Land Cruiser station wagon. Upon arrival at Edundu, he lost control. As a result, the vehicle swerved off lane, hit a road embankment and overturned.”
Nkhwazi said due to the impact, Hara sustained head injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at Mzuzu Central Hospital.
His elder brother Sangwani Hara, who is Tea Association of Malawi board chairperson, confirmed Othaniel’s demise in an interview on Sunday, saying the family was devastated.
“He loved his family and was a great pillar for the entire Hara family. We are devastated by the loss. On Friday he presented prizes at home for a bonanza he organised. Hamba kahle my brother and may your soul rest in eternal peace,” said Hara.
He said Hara, 56, who is survived by a wife and two children, will be laid to rest tomorrow at Simon Hara Village, Ebubeni, Traditional Authority Mtwalo in Mzimba.
FAM president Fleetwood Haiya said he was deeply saddened by the tragedy.
He said: “His contribution to Malawian football left an indelible mark on our game. He will be greatly missed by the football community.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the whole football fraternity. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”
In a statement FAM also condoled the family.
Reads the statement in part: “FAM is deeply saddened by the passing of former second vice-president Mr. Othaniel Hara. Mr. Hara was an exceptional football administrator who dedicated his life to the development of the game in Malawi.
“His commitment and passion for football have left an indelible mark on the sport. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Immediate-past FAM president Walter Nyamilandu said: “It is heartbreaking to lose such a great man who committed his life towards developing football in the country.
“During his tenure as vice-president of FAM, he played a pivotal role in raising the bar of Malawi football. He worked very hard to develop the game from bottom to the top.
“He also played a great role in pioneering infrastructure projects such as Luwinga Technical Centre and sponsorship initiatives for Northern Region Football Association.”
“I will forever miss his valuable advice and great times that we shared together,” said Nyamilandu, who is also a Confederation of African Football executive committee member.
