The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has called for an emergency executive committee meeting amidst the ongoing standoff between the governing body and two of the country’s top football clubs, Vipers SC and SC Villa, and the fans.
The dispute centers on FUFA’s new league format and reforms, which the clubs and fans claim were introduced without adequate consultation and too rushed.
The Standoff
Vipers SC made a bold statement by not showing up for their Uganda Premier League match against Kitara FC at Namboole Stadium on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
The team’s absence was a culmination of their ongoing dispute with FUFA over the new league format and reforms.
Vipers SC, along with SC Villa and NEC FC, had expressed dissatisfaction with the new league format, citing lack of consultation and unfair treatment of privately-owned clubs.
Key Issues at Hand
New League Format: FUFA’s introduction of a three-round format has been met with resistance from clubs, who argue that it will complicate the league and reduce fan engagement.
Revenue-Sharing Model: The new format includes a revenue-sharing model that reduces gate receipts for home teams, potentially impacting club sustainability.
Lack of Consultation: Clubs claim that FUFA did not engage with them adequately before introducing the reforms, leading to feelings of exclusion and mistrust.
The Clubs’ Demands
Vipers SC and fans have taken a hard stance, threatening not to participate in the league until their concerns are addressed.
However, SC Villa has opted to participate “under protest and duress,” while other clubs have expressed similar sentiments.
Vipers SC President Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa is vowing to exhaust all available means to seek justice.
FUFA’s Position
FUFA has defended the reforms, arguing that they are necessary for the sport’s evolution and will enhance competitiveness, improve fan engagement, and align with global trends.
The governing body has also continued to remind Vipers SC that they are expected to honor their fixtures, despite the club’s threat to continued boycott.
A Call for Intervention
Hon. Geofrey Kayemba Solo, the Shadow Minister for Sports, has called for urgent intervention to resolve the impasse, urging FUFA to adopt dialogue and fair play.
Can the Emergency Meeting Bring Harmony?
The upcoming emergency committee meeting will be crucial in determining the future of Ugandan football.
Will FUFA and the clubs be able to find common ground, or will the standoff continue?
