Uganda Chess Federation elects new leadership
The elections were held to replace Eng. Emanuel Mwaka, whose two terms had come to an end.
Newly elected Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) president Andrew Bakiza (centre) with his executive. PHOTO: Julius Kafuluma
Newly elected Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) president Andrew Bakiza has pledged to prioritize transparency, accountability, and improved player welfare as his administration embarks on a new four-year term.
Bakiza, who narrowly won the presidency by three votes, promised to mobilize resources to strengthen regional chess development. His plans include funding equipment such as boards, enhancing coaching and arbitration structures, and positioning Uganda to host continental championships.
“Our leadership is going to centre on transparency and accountability, and we shall work to improve players’ welfare. We want to organize African championships in Uganda and mobilize resources for international events,” he said, expressing confidence that the future of chess “is now in good hands.”
The elections were held to replace Eng. Emanuel Mwaka, whose two terms had come to an end.
Five elective positions, President, Vice President, General Secretary, Treasurer, and Women’s Affairs, drew nine contestants, with only the General Secretary post going unopposed.
Bakiza secured 14 votes, edging former UCF vice president Isaac Otim, who garnered 11, while Robert Katende received two. Katende, absent on voting day, was not permitted to vote in absentia under UCF guidelines.
Other winners included Allan Mande Benjamin, elected Vice President with 16 votes against Teeba Jordan’s 11; David Muwanguzi, elected Treasurer with 16 votes against Moses Nkonge’s 11; and Victoria Nakirya, who became the federation’s first-ever Secretary for Women’s Affairs under the new sports act, defeating Milly Takali 15–10. Walter Okas was elected unopposed as Secretary General.
Ivan Nuwamanya, an official from the National Council of Sports (NCS) who supervised the election, urged the new leadership to emulate the outgoing team’s transparency and innovation. He praised Mwaka’s administration for strong financial accountability and extensive grassroots development.
“You have found no issues in chess, and the outgoing team has been excellent in our books,” he noted.
Outgoing president Eng. Mwaka reminded the new team that continued government support depends on proper accountability. “Money is always there if you account for your books well,” he advised.
The new executive committee now awaits swearing-in before officially beginning its term.