CYCLING

Sam Muwonge, best known as Mahaba, has bounced back as the Uganda Cycling Association (UCA) president, becoming the longest-serving official at the helm of the sport.

Muwonge was unopposed in the elections held at Uganda Olympic Committee on Saturday after his challenger Matthew Jjemba stepped down.

John Richard Sseninde, Yusuf Mbazira, James Mugisha emerged vice-president, general secretary and treasurer, respectively.

The others elected included, Juliet Namatovu (assistant secretary), Moses Mubiru (competitions secretary), Richard Twahirwe (welfare and disciplinary), Janat Nakamya Mahaba (secretary women affairs) and Dennis Ssembatya (publicity secretary).

After his re-election, Muwonge pledged to work with his critics to develop Ugandan cycling.

“I think it is time for reconciliation if we are to develop the sport. I have to the advice of Buganda minister Henry Ssekabembe, who advised us to bury the hatchet for the good of the sport,” he said.

National Council of Sports (NCS) official James Kasumba urged the elected executive to work as a unit and also consider amending their constitution to bridge the gaps that are causing internal conflicts.

“As NCS, we have observed several loopholes in your administration and constitution. Try to amend and bring back the other entire group so that you work as a team,” he urged.

The cycling federation has had several internal wars with challengers, including former leader Hajji Ssekibenga, who leads the Buganda Cycling Association.