Thariq Secures Backing from All 23 Clubs as Sole Candidate in FAM Election

Ahmed Thariq (Tom), former president of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) and current MP for Mahibadhoo, has been officially confirmed as the sole candidate in FAM’s upcoming presidential election after securing nomination support from all 23 eligible member clubs. His candidacy was finalized following the July 6 deadline set by the FIFA-appointed Normalization Committee.

Thariq’s unanimous backing marks a strong comeback for the former national team player, who previously sought the presidency twice. Both of those attempts were derailed by FIFA interventions citing governance and procedural concerns.

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This time, Thariq has garnered support from all 10 first division and 13 second division clubs, which now make up FAM’s full membership under the reformed statutes approved last week. His candidacy clears the path for a virtually uncontested return to leadership when elections are held on July 26, ahead of the Normalization Committee’s term expiring at the end of this month.

Past Challenges Overcome

Thariq’s earlier bids were blocked by FAM’s electoral committee, which twice ruled that he lacked the necessary backing of at least three first division clubs. Those decisions were later overturned by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), who deemed them violations of FAM’s statutes. The dispute led to the dissolution of FAM’s executive committee and the appointment of a Normalization Committee to oversee reforms and prepare for fresh elections.

Thariq’s Slate for Executive Committee

If elected, Thariq will be supported by a team featuring a mix of former players, club officials, and female representatives:

Senior Vice President: Ali Ibrahim (New Radiant)

Vice Presidents: 

1. Hussain Shafiu (Maziya)
2. Mujtaba Jaleel (New Radiant)

Members:

1. Imran Mohamed (former national team goalkeeper)
2. Mohamed Umair (former national team player)
3. Ahmed Abbas (TC Sports Club)
4. Ali Rizwan (BG Sports Club)
5. Abdulla Nasih (Odi Sports)

Female Members:

1. Hawwa Nasra Saeed
2. Hawwa Rasheeda

Reforms Approved at Congress

Thariq’s confirmation follows the Ordinary Congress held last week, where member clubs approved sweeping amendments to FAM’s statutes. Key reforms include:

• A new electoral code and transparent nomination process
• Mandatory financial disclosures including audit reports and executive compensation
• A ban on large cash transactions without oversight
• Gender quotas, requiring at least two female members on the executive committee
• A one-year deadline for implementing a women’s football development framework
• Empowerment to organize regional tournaments and form regional associations

Lingering Corruption Scandal

Despite the reforms, FAM continues to battle reputational damage from the tenure of former president Bassam Adeel Jaleel, who remains under investigation for alleged corruption, misappropriation of funds, and abuse of power. Reports of financial mismanagement and unapproved foreign transactions during his leadership triggered the intervention from FIFA.