Endless bickering killing sports in Uganda

May 11, 2012

FOR several years now, we have had endless bickering in boxing, which, for many years, was one of Uganda’s leading medal provider

By Salim Uhuru

AS a long-time sportsman and sports sponsor, I have noted that the state minister for sports, Bakabulindi, is part and parcel of the current impasse in different sports disciplines.

I have been involved in sports for most of my life. I was a sportsman during my youth and now I sponsor tens of sportsmen, including boxers.

For several years now, we have had endless bickering in boxing, which, for many years, was one of Uganda’s leading medal provider.

Today, the country is in danger of not sending any boxer to the Olympic Games because of the bickering in boxing. 

If this happens, it will be an insult to the boxers of yesteryears, who did a lot for the flag of this country. They won medals not only in the Olympics but in other championships. The minister has failed to find the middle line between the ‘warring’ boxing groups and individuals.

A few days back, the minister visited Mandela National Stadium and stopped all contracts there, claiming irregularities.

The minister should be blamed for letting the situation get out of hand.

It is not only Nambole’s land that is threatened. Tens of sports pitches across the city have been taken over by businessmen and the minister has done nothing.

Nakivubo Stadium, which is the most elaborate of them all is now dilapidated. There used to be at least 10 football pitches at Lugogo, today, there is only one left.

Ironically, these football pitches have ‘gone’ during Bakabulindi’s time. He has failed to find a solution to all the bickering in sports bodies. He should leave the sports fraternity to start anew.

 

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