FAM Suspends Referee ‘Mwambyale’ Over Bullets vs Ekhaya Match Incident
Published on July 16, 2025 at 3:03 PM by Evance Kapito
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Referees Committee has suspended referee Michael Mwambyale for three months following controversial incidents during a recent Super League match between FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and Ekhaya FC.
The incident at the center of the disciplinary action involved Ekhaya goalkeeper Elias Missi, who was caught grabbing Bullets striker Babatunde Adepoju by the neck after a mid-air collision. The confrontation went unpunished during the match, prompting criticism from fans and stakeholders.
According to an official communication from FAM, Mwambyale will not officiate in FAM or Super League matches during his suspension period. Afterward, he will be relegated to officiate in the National Division League for the remainder of the season.
In addition, second assistant referee Fanuel Mailosi has also been suspended for two months and will similarly serve the rest of the season in the National Division League.
While goalkeeper Elias Missi was not sanctioned during the game, FAM has now recommended disciplinary action against him for violent conduct.
The Referees Committee emphasized the importance of upholding discipline and professionalism in officiating, stating that referees must take swift and appropriate action to maintain the integrity of the game.
