Muwema joins race for FUFA top seat
Jun 25, 2013
City lawyer Fred Muwema has signaled his intent to contest for the presidency for local football governing body FUFA.
By James Bakama
Only a day after it became apparent that FUFA president Lawrence Mulindwa would not seek re-election in August’s polls, city lawyer Fred Muwema has signaled his intent to contest for the presidency.
Muwema has been a fierce critic of Mulindwa’s reign and the former’s ties with the Uganda Super League (USL) have been the source of a protracted battle between the two parties.
“Like I have always said, I am interested in serving as FUFA President,” said Muwema.
Muwema who has always disputed the legality of FUFA however added that he cannot get involved in the ongoing electoral process, which he described as a sham.
“I can only get involved after the federation gets properly constituted,” explained Muwema.
He described Vision Group CEO Robert Kabushenga’s decision to join the racefor presidency as positive.
“We need such elites in football management. With a person like Kabushenga in the race, I can even step aside and concentrate on my club.”
He however noted that under the current FUFA constitution, such quality people like Kabushenga would be locked out.
Kabushenga who has since last year been chairman of soccer fans’ group Uganda Cranes Initiative (UCI), on Tuesday declared his interest in running for local football’s top job.
'I am aware' of the challenges
“I have been contributing as a fan with some impact. As president I should be able to have earth shaking results.”
Article 9 on eligibility for presidency, which could prove to be Kabushenga’s undoing states that; candidates should have served on either FIFA, CAF, CECAFA or FUFA for a total of at least seven years in the last ten years.
“I am aware there are hurdles. All I am saying is that lets open up. Let us change these rules so that the country can benefit. This can be done before the elections in August,” Kabushenga appealed.
Mulindwa who has been in power for almost 9 years shocked members in an extraordinary executive meeting held at the federation’s offices in Mengo on Monday when he disclosed that he was no longer interested in pursuing a third term at the helm of Ugandan football.
Without presenting an explanation, Mulindwa reportedly told his executive members that he was fed up with the pressure surrounding the seat.
He pointed that he wanted to retire into his private life and fully manage his personal businesses.
“Yes, he told us that he will not seek another term in office. He said that it was because of the too much pressure on him. He told us that it was beyond his own making. This untimely decision is very unfortunate for our football,” a FUFA vice president, who preferred anonymity, disclosed after the meeting.
Mulindwa’s decision has come exactly 67 days to the next FUFA presidential elections expected to be held at the technical centre in Njeru on August 31.
The teacher/businessman, quits FUFA as the second longest serving president after Kabaka Daudi Chwa (1924- 1934).
During his time as president, Mulindwa was able to improve the image of the national football team.
He was however blamed for failing to fulfil his pledge of helping Uganda qualify for the World Cup and Africa Nations Cup finals. His regime also witnessed two leagues — the first in Ugandan history.
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