By Chisomo Phiri
NBS Bank plc has clarified its role in the aftermath of the incident involving Lilongwe City Mayor Alex Banda during the K100 million Charity Shield final on Saturday, emphasizing that it was not involved in security or protocol decisions at the event.
The mayor reportedly was stopped from joining officials who presented medals after the match between eventual winners Mighty Wanderers and rivals FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.
In a statement released today, the bank stresses that its involvement in the Charity Shield was strictly as a sponsor, distancing itself from operational matters.
“NBS Bank’s role in the Charity Shield event is that of a sponsor. Event delivery, including programme coordination, protocol arrangements, and security management, is undertaken by the organisers and relevant authorities under Football Association of Malawi and FIFA guidelines,” reads the statement in part.
The bank further notes that none of its personnel took part in any actions related to security or the removal of individuals from the stage.
“At no point were NBS Bank personnel involved in any security-related action, or in the removal or ejection of any individual from the stage or procession area,” adds the statement.
NBS Bank has however,reaffirmed its relationship with the Lilongwe City Council (LCC), stating that it values the partnership and remains committed to maintaining and strengthening it.
The clarification comes after FAM issued an apology to Banda over the incident, which also drew condemnation from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.
On the pitch, Mighty Wanderers secured victory through a solitary goal scored by Sama Thierry Tanjong, handing the Nomads their first Charity Shield title.
