Lilongwe City Mayor, Councillor Alex Peter Banda, has acknowledged the apology issued by the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) following his assault by alleged FA officials during the NBS Bank Charity Shield medal presentation on 18 April 2026 at Bingu National Stadium.

However, he has stressed that an apology alone is not sufficient to conclude the matter, pending a full and transparent investigation.

“An apology alone does not close this matter,” he said, before adding that he “…will not accept any sanitised or evasive account.”

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture yesterday requested a formal report within 48 hours, detailing the sequence of events and identifying those responsible. This position was endorsed by the Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA), a stance the Mayor has welcomed.

As part of the next steps, the Mayor has formally invited FAM leadership to the Lilongwe City Council for an engagement meeting once the report is submitted. The discussion is expected to focus on corrective measures and restoring a respectful working relationship, particularly given the importance of football to youth development.

Other concerns were also raised regarding event sponsor NBS Bank, with Banda urging caution. He said any conclusions regarding the bank’s role would depend on the official report’s findings.

MALGA President and Blantyre City Mayor Councillor Isaac Jomo Osman yesterday made a statement defending the dignity of mayoral offices across Malawi.

Mighty Wanderers defeated their arch rivals, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, through a 48th-minute goal by their Cameroonian striker, Sama Tanjong Thiery, to win the NBS Charity shield.