Magogo remains tight-lipped on FUFA plans

By James Bakama 

MOSES Magogo has taken the safe route by not committing himself on what deliverable he will have for Ugandans regarding qualification for the big stage during his term as new FUFA boss.

Magogo certainly learnt his lesson from his predecessor and mentor Lawrence Mulindwa who, on assuming office in 2005, promised the country not only a World Cup slot, but also a return to the finals of the Africa Nations Cup tournament.

Eight years down the road Mulindwa hadn’t delivered on the promise. This seems to have served as a big lesson for Magogo, whose manifesto is focused more on structural interventions.

As he began his four-year term on Saturday, Magogo stressed that he would focus on issues like training, result oriented delivery at the respective federation levels and improved external relations.

Magogo was handed the instruments of power by Mulindwa at the federation’s elective general assembly at Nile Resort Hotel, Jinja on Saturday. 

Mulindwa explained that the meeting was shifted from the FUFA technical centre in Njeru at the eleventh hour due to electricity constraints.

Praise for Mulindwa

Magogo, who concedes that he faces a huge task as he steps into Mulindwa’s shoes, is full of praises for his predecessor for not only having identified him, but also groomed him for one of local sport’s most powerful positions.

He outlines several of Mulindwa’s achievements that include boosting the federation’s image, securing the federation’s property, empowering the FUFA’s structures, improving the Cranes brand to an extent of going almost nine years unbeaten at home.

But Magogo is also determined to make his mark. Among the technical areas he will address, will be the national teams, coaches and referees.

“My administration shall maintain and grow further the Uganda Cranes brand. We shall continue with the good welfare scheme of the Cranes,” says Magogo in his manifesto.

“We shall perceive qualification to the major tournaments as just one of the many indicators to show growth but not the end product itself.”

Magogo voted in

Despite emerging as the only qualified candidate in the federation’s electoral process two months ago, Magogo was still subjected to a vote at the assembly that attracted 73 delegates of the expected 86.

A total of 68 delegates voted in favour of Magogo while three were against him and one absconded. “I hereby declare Engineer Moss Magogo as the new FUFA president,” announced federation electoral committee chairman Patrick Okanya.

The assembly, under article 18 of the FUFA constitution, also passed a resolution declaring outgoing president Lawrence Mulindwa an honorary president. The title allows Mulindwa, even when not a delegate, to deliberate in FUFA assemblies though he will not be allowed to vote. He has been at the helm for two terms

Magogo’s executive has Justus Mugisha as first vice president, Darius Mugoye (2nd vice president), Mujib Kasule (3rd vice president and Super Division Clubs representative). Other committee members are: Mariam Kaliga, Sam Mpiima, Patrick Ogwel, Hamid Juma, Rogers Byamukama, Chris Kalibala, Sam Lwere, Rasoul Ariga, Richard Ochom.