Football Association of Malawi Criticized for Appointing Kalisto Pasuwa as U-23 Coach

The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has faced significant backlash following its appointment of Kalisto Pasuwa, the current coach of Nyasa Big Bullets, to head the Malawi Under-23 National Football Team. Pasuwa's new role will see him lead the team in the upcoming COSAFA Cup in South Africa, scheduled to take place from June 14 to 25.

This decision has sparked controversy among local coaches and football analysts who argue that FAM should have advertised the position and considered unattached local coaches to avoid disrupting the league. Former Bullets coach Rodgers Yasin expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, 'I am not happy with the way his [Pasuwa's] appointment has been made. We also have coaches in the country who have a Caf A coaching licence. I would have loved it if they had been given a chance to apply for the job.'

Local football analyst Mathews Kimu Kamau echoed Yasin's sentiments, saying, 'Much as I appreciate that Pasuwa is good, but I am of the view that other local coaches should have been given a chance.' Kamau suggested that Pasuwa should focus on his current role with Nyasa Big Bullets, especially since the team is struggling in the league.

Former FAM executive member Julius Mithi described the appointment as 'unprofessional and uncalled for,' emphasizing that FAM should have adhered to its manifesto, which stated that national coaches for under-17, 20, and 23 teams would be appointed with different panels. Mithi argued, 'There are many local coaches who have not had the opportunity to coach a national team, but are qualified and capable of doing so.'

In response to the criticism, FAM General Secretary Alfred Gunda confirmed that Pasuwa would travel to South Africa with the team but did not elaborate on the composition of the technical panel. The FAM Technical Sub-committee Chairperson Madalitso Kuyera has not responded to questions regarding the matter.

Kalisto Pasuwa, a Zimbabwean coach, has been with Nyasa Big Bullets since 2018 and has led the team to several domestic and regional titles. Despite his success, the decision to appoint him to the national U-23 team has raised questions about the prioritization of local talent and the potential impact on the league.

The controversy surrounding Pasuwa's dual role continues to be a point of contention with the COSAFA Cup approaching. The upcoming tournament will be a pivotal test for both Pasuwa and the Football Association of Malawi as they confront the challenges posed by this appointment.

Key Takeaways

• FAM appoints Kalisto Pasuwa as Malawi U-23 National Team coach, sparking controversy.
• Local coaches and analysts criticize the decision, citing lack of transparency and disruption to the league.
• Pasuwa's dual role with Nyasa Big Bullets raises concerns about prioritizing local talent.
• FAM faces backlash for not advertising the position and considering unattached local coaches.
• The controversy surrounds Pasuwa's appointment ahead of the COSAFA Cup in South Africa.