Kitara, the 2023/24 Uganda Cup champions, are on the verge of an unrestrained crisis, as the club risks losing 14 of their star players over contract expirations.
The Royals, who captured the imagination of football fans with their fearless displays for the last two seasons, now find themselves staring at a major collapse, with 10 players running out of contracts on Monday, June 30th.
While the club will attempt to tie some to fresh contracts, it’s for a fact that they will be free agents, unattached, and up for grabs for worthy suitors.
Leading the possible exodus is talismanic forward and winger Jude Ssemugabi, whose imminent departure has already caused mayhem in the market. Reports have linked him to near-switches to Vipers SC, KCCA FC and South Sudanese outfit Jamus SC.
Defensive anchor Ronald Otti, silky midfielder Titus Ssematimba, Marvin Nyanzi, towering Benjamin Nyakoojo, and clinical striker Patrick Henry Kaddu are all out of contract and will be free agents.
Forward George Ssenkaaba, reliable goalkeeper Chrispus Kusiima, speedy winger Kabon Living, colossus defender Arthur Kiggundu, attacker Moses Sseruyidde, right-back Lazaro Bwambale, and utility man Farouk Yawe are all out of contracts — Kitara’s dressing room is set to be left bare.
Meanwhile, to make matters even worse, fan-favorite and playmaking midfielder Frank “Zaga” Tumwesigye also ran out of contract earlier this month, signaling a midfield void that could be hard to fill, should the exit happen.
As if losing almost the entire core squad wasn’t enough, club president Deo Kasozi already announced his exit, leaving Kitara in the hands of Gilbert Nyaika in the interim. The man who spearheaded the club’s recent rise and vision is already gone, adding a deep layer to the looming crisis.
Kitara now faces a defining moment that could shatter the momentum they worked so hard to build. The big question now is: will the Royals find a lifeline to rebuild in time, or is Hoima bracing for a painful fall from grace?
