The Disciplinary Committee of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has banned MAFCO’s Innocent Kafunda from participating in any football-related activities for a year.
Kafunda was found guilty of assaulting match officials, a violation of Article 24.12 of the Castel Challenge Cup Rules and Regulations.
The incident took place on November 29, 2023, at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre during a match between Bangwe All Stars and MAFCO in the Round of 16 of the Castel Challenge Cup.
In a statement issued by FAM General Secretary, Alfred Gunda, the association has also cracked its whip on MAFCO by imposing a K500,000 fine on the team for failing to control their player’s unsporting behaviour.
According to Gunda, despite being charged by FAM on December 12, MAFCO and Kafunda did not respond to the charges.
Sports Analyst Dan Chemis has applauded the move and criticized MAFCO for tolerating violence against referees.
“Assaulting referees is regressive. MAFCO, being a military side, should prioritize discipline,” Chemis remarked.
Another soccer pundit, Kim Kamau, said the decision would serve as a deterrent to potential offenders.
“Regardless of being soldiers on the field, players should respect the referee and their decisions,” Kamau emphasized.
The Castel Challenge Cup, which began in July and ended in December 2023, saw FCB Nyasa Big Bullets emerge champions.
Reported by Romeo Umali
