By Twink Jones Gadama
In a dramatic turn of events, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Player Status Committee has ordered striker Promise Kamwendo to return to Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos FC, following a protracted transfer saga involving Mighty Mukuru Wanderers and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.
The verdict, released this morning, declares the contract between Kamwendo and Dedza Dynamos valid, rendering his subsequent signing with Wanderers invalid.
This decision has far-reaching consequences, with fines and refunds totaling millions of kwacha.
Kamwendo, who recently signed with Wanderers, has been ordered to refund K6,000,000 to the club within 14 days. Wanderers, in turn, must pay a fine of K4,000,000 within the same period.
Dedza Dynamos, meanwhile, will refund the K7,000,000 they received from both Wanderers and Bullets and pay an additional fine of K3,000,000.
This transfer tussle began when Kamwendo signed with Dedza Dynamos, only to later join Wanderers without proper clearance.
The dispute escalated when Bullets also claimed ownership of the player, leading to a complex web of claims and counterclaims.
The Player Status Committee’s verdict brings much-needed clarity to the situation, but raises questions about the conduct of all parties involved.
“FAM has made it clear that the rules will be enforced, and clubs must adhere to transfer regulations,” said FAM’s legal advisor, David Kanyenda. “This decision serves as a warning to clubs and players alike.”
Dedza Dynamos’ general secretary, Isaac Kamwendo, welcomed the verdict, saying, “We are pleased that justice has been served. Promise is our player, and we expect him to return to the team.”
Wanderers’ team manager, Steve Madeira, expressed disappointment, saying, “We respect the decision, but feel it is unfair. We will consider appealing.”
Bullets’ general secretary, Albert Chigoga, declined to comment, saying, “We are studying the verdict and will respond accordingly.”
As the dust settles, Kamwendo’s future remains uncertain. Will he return to Dedza Dynamos, or seek a new challenge?
The transfer saga may be over, but its impact on Malawian football will be felt for a long time.
This verdict highlights the need for clearer regulations and stricter enforcement of transfer rules.
As the beautiful game continues to evolve, it is crucial that the governing bodies keep pace, ensuring fairness and transparency in all aspects of the game.