Ex-USPA boss to head Masaza Cup probe committee

UGANDAN FOOTBALL

KAMPALA - Former Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) president Sabiiti Muwanga has been appointed chairperson of the Masaza Cup probe committee by Buganda Kingdom sports minister Henry Ssekabembe.

Muwanga, formerly at New Vision, will head a committee that includes Bernard Bainamani (secretary), Rita Nampoza, Peterson Kayima Magoba and USPA member Fred Kiyingi Musisi.

Ssekabembe made the announcement on Tuesday at a press briefing in Sseguku.

Flanked by the Masaza Cup organizing committee chairperson Sulaiman Ssejjengo, committee member Faridah Bongole and Adam Ssematiko, the Buganda minister said he is confident the committee will deliver.

"There are defects that merited our attention since they contravene the objectives of the Buganda competitions and the brand. The five-member probe committee will investigate the irregularities and report back within 30 days to ensure effective and efficient management of the tournament to the satisfaction of all the stakeholders," he said.

Ssekabembe also named the rules and regulations review committee that will have Bernard Bainamani as chairperson and Frank Kyazze, Haruna Kyobe, Ruth Nalwanga, Dan Mwanje, Richard Kirabira and Festus Kirumira as members.

The committee will review this year's regulations in a bid to harmonize the 2020 competition rules and regulations.

This committee has 14 days to complete the exercise after consulting all football stakeholders.

Ssekabembe also explained that despite the lockdown, the committees would continue with the organisation process to maintain the standard of the competitions.

"As we face the COVID-19 pandemic, the safety and well-being of all Ugandans remains our priority. Let us follow the directives put in place by the Government.

"Stay home and stay safe until the lockdown is lifted."

The development comes at a time when majority of the 18 Masaza team chiefs have officially announced their respective working committees.

The teams continue to prepare behind the scenes with player recruitment and beefing of other workforce.

Last season, Buleemezi beat Busiro in the final.