Otuchet set to retain UAF seat

By James Bakama

WITH Julius Achon having opted for the courts of law, Domenic Otuchet could be unopposed at Uganda Athletics Federation’s elections this morning.

“I’ve stepped down. You can’t prepare within only 12 hours. I will seek justice elsewhere,” said Achon yesterday after the deadline to submit the names of delegates elapsed.

Achon and 21 districts petitioned the National Council of Sports for what they described as an unfair electoral process.

He opted for court on Tuesday after a meeting called by NCS to reconcile the petitioners and UAF failed to bear fruits.

NCS and UAF had hoped that freeing Achon’s district Lira together with Nakapiririt, Entebbe Town Council, Mayuge, Kawempe and Kampala into the assembly would soften Achon. These associations had lost membership after defaulting on affiliation fees.

Otuchet, who took over from Dan Tamwesigire as federation boss in 2010, is seeking a second term. The general assembly starts at 10am at the UOC offices at Lugogo.

The UAF constitution requires contestants to declare their intentions on the floor.

General Secretary Beatrice Ayikoru said business starts with a roll call then a prayer before communication from the chair then the day’s main exercise — elections.

“We should be done within an hour,” said Ayikoru of the election likely to bring back the entire executive. 

After filling the eight executive posts, regions present will elect their representatives. The electorate comprises of 43 associations with each presenting two delegates. 

Former Uganda Law Society chairman Oscar Kihika will be the returning officer.