Swimming: Rukare and his executive re-elected

PIC: Newly-elected USF president Donald Rukare addresses the elective general assembly flanked by Vice president in charge of adminstration Peter Mugisha on Saturday. (Credit: Michael Nsubuga)

KAMPALA - There was no change of personnel in the very top ranks of the Uganda Swimming Federation (USF) executive following the elective general assembly on Saturday at the UOC Secretariat.

Donald Rukare garnered 23 votes to beat his challenger Tefiro Serunjogi (five votes) and remain the UAF president at least for the next four years.

"The outcome of the election is a sign of trust the electorate has in me and the team I have been working with in the executive. I'm willing to continue working toward achieving what we haven't achieved in the past. We shall promote our swimmers internationally and also redefine the sport" said Rukare.

Despite being at the helm of the sport for the last 16 years, the 48-year-old believes there is more to offer to the sport which is still growing.

"I started the journey of transforming swimming in Uganda way back and at least we have reached somewhere; creating an environment where clubs can develop, promoting and introducing local swimmers to the international level. However the journey doesn't stop there. I am happy I have been given the opportunity to continue the cause."

Tefiro conceded defeat but could not hide his disappointment over the "behind the scenes" politics.

"I accept the defeat but I won't stop pushing for positive change in the governing of the sport in the country. The executive are not upstanding people in their positions and on the outcomes of the elections, I believe voters were 'influenced' before the voting date," he said.

The newly elected USF executive pose after the elections at UOC offices. (Credit: Michael Nsubuga)

Meanwhile Peter Mugisha beat Irene Mudanye to the position of Vice president-admnistration after getting 24 votes with the latter accumulating only four.

It should be underscored that Mudanye was a former treasurer, choosing to stand down in 2015 over the need to "protect" her integrity.

Moses Mwase, another facet in the old executive, remained the general secretary after overcoming Rachael Kituuka. He got 25 votes out of the 28 that were cast as Kituuka got three.

Albert Wasswa made light work of Virginia Semakula as he was voted assistant general secretary.

Williams Buyondo, Erick Kisero and Steven Katumba were voted to represent the Men on the committee.

Florence Nakakawa who stood unopposed as treasurer, her assistant Annet Mwebeiha, Muzafaru Muwanguzi, the new second Vice President technical, Erick Kisero, Steven Katumba and Elizabeth Kabahenda are the only new faces on the executive.

ELECTION RESULTS

President

Donald Rukare 23 votes

Tefiro Sserunjogi 5 votes

Vice President

Peter Mugisha 24 votes

Irene Mudanye 4 votes

General Secretary

Moses Mwase 25 votes

Rachel Kituuka 3 votes

Ass General Secreatary

Albert Wasswa 24 votes

Virginia Ssemakula 4 votes

Competitions Secretary

Max Kanyerezi

Elizabeth Kabahenda

Committee members

Nana Nakiddu

Lillian Mugisha

Williams Buyondo

Erick Kisero

Steven Katumba