Train is pushing, Tom!
Former president Bakili Muluzi is known for his soft approach to issues so much that even when things get really tough, he still manages to see the lighter side and, somehow, finds a way to get out of murky waters.
When the kwacha was devalued during his tenure, some people had the cheek to taunt him that when he was asked for a comment, he retorted in his Yao accent: “Kwacha yagwa? Ngati yagwa osayitola bwanji, amangwetu?”
But there is one that cheers my spirits—whether fact or just a classic exageration—it is said that he promised people free pairs of shoes, but as pressure mounted on him to fulfil the pledge, he was not caught off guard and had a steady answer: “Amayi ndi abambo sindinalonjeze kuti ndizagawa sapato. Ine ndingaziwe ma sayizi anu nonsenu from Nsanje to Chitipa? That’s cheap propaganda! Asa, mwachita bwanji anthu openga inu!”
And this other time, my good friend Henry ‘Kaka’ Chibowa shared with me an interesting quote: ‘Promise the people the moon and if you do not get there, tell them the sun interfered!’
I have been reminded of all this because of what Belgian tactician coach Tom Saintfiet said when he was unveiled as coach for my beloved Flames recently.
Saintfiet told a press briefing that he offered himself for the Flames because he felt they are a good side capable of beating Nigeria. But barely a week and a half later, he has changed his tune and, suddenly, believes the majority of the players are mediocre and do not deserve to be in the team?
Well, I guess this is not the right time to play some funny mind games Tom. You promised to write a fairytale by guiding the Flames to qualify for Brazil 2014 and that is all we are waiting for. And by the way, I have already been in touch with a Brazilian combo of a lady called Tamia and I have given her my word that you’re taking us there.
I have no reason to worry because you’re there Tom. After all, you are the chosen one, an angel of mercy. Apart from that, I can offer you some ‘Blackberry’ sachets to cool off after the Cosafa misery. The train is pushing Tom, you’ve got to live to your word and take us to Rio de Jainero. Glory be to God! Uloliwe.. Uloliwe wayidudula hi..Nang’esiza! [The train is pushing!]
