KCCA, FUFA clash over Hassan Wasswa

By Fred Kaweesi

Africa Nations Championship

January 11-February 1

KCCA are determined to ensure Hassan Wasswa is not considered for the Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) due in South Africa.

And to achieve that, the Lugogo-based outfit will pull all the necessary stops, even if it involves officially communicating to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the rebellious footballer.

Over the last couple of weeks, soccer governing body FUFA have been toying with the idea of considering players Wasswa, Tony Odur and Frank Kalanda for the local-based players’ championship.

However, unlike Odur and Kalanda, Wasswa will find it extremely difficult to walk into the Cranes team as KCCA want the player suspended for absconding from club duty.

“We have been in touch with FUFA and the Cranes coach (Micho Sredojevic) over the possibility of including Odur and Wasswa in the CHAN squad.

“But although we have no problems with Odur, we feel Wasswa should be left out. He travelled to Vietnam and stopped all communication with the club.

“Ever since he returned to the country after the move to Dong Nai collapsed, he has not returned to the club and yet we have been paying all his wages on his account for the last five months,” KCCA Vice Chairman (administration) Allan Ssewanyana told New Vision Sport yesterday.

The Chan tournament that starts on January 11 is designed exclusively for players in domestic leagues, which means Odur, Wasswa and Kalanda must be affiliated to one of the domestic clubs to be legible for Chan.

“He has a contract with us that ends in August next year. But we can decide to disown Wasswa. FUFA cannot consider him without our consent,” Sewanyana added. 

Micho cautious 

When Micho was contacted on the latest developments, he said: “I do not have full details on this but I will let you know on the way forward as soon as I get in touch with the three players and consult with the authorities.”

But with less than a fortnight to the championship, should Micho really pardon the three? Wouldn’t their belated inclusion affect the preparations of the team? Are the three players fit anyway?

The Cranes, who are currently undergoing residential training and might have one friendly match, plan to travel to South Africa on January 9. 

FUFA defiant

Although Wasswa could not be traced for a comment, FUFA seemed prepared to assist ease the players’ way into the team.

“We want to find an understanding where both the player and KCCA agree. But Sewanyana and not KCCA as an institution seems determined to frustrate the player.

“Wasswa might have problems with the club and is willing to be punished. But that should not stop him from representing the country.

“Out of courtesy, I chose to call and consult KCCA over the players’ status although we were aware that the player (with or without KCCA’s consent) is 100 % eligible for CHAN,” FUFA Vice Chairman (technical) Mujib Kasule pointed.

Wasswa was captain when Cranes qualified for CHAN.