The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has claimed that some football officials, referees, and players have been approached with offers of money to influence results and discredit the ongoing competition reforms, deepening tensions in an already volatile football climate.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, the federation said it had “learnt of efforts of approaching players, coaches and referees promising huge sums of money to predetermine results and make public comments to discredit the Competitions Reforms.”
FUFA also alleged that there were attempts to organise violent fan actions in and around football venues.
“These acts not only contravene football regulations and the 2023 National Sports Act but may also interrupt public peace and order,” the statement warned, urging anyone approached to report such incidents to the police or to FUFA directly.
The statement comes at a time when the federation is facing intense backlash from supporters over the newly introduced Uganda Premier League format, which has triggered one of the most serious governance crises in Ugandan football in recent years.
The dispute began when FUFA unveiled a new three-round league system for the 2025/26 season.
The plan includes an initial one-leg phase for all 16 teams, followed by split home-and-away rounds and playoffs to decide the champions and relegated clubs.
FUFA has defended the changes as a way to make the league “faster, fiercer, and fairer,” but fans argue the reforms were pushed through without proper consultation.
Vipers, who have been vocal against the reforms say the format will disrupt matchday revenues, complicate logistics, and unfairly reduce the number of home fixtures per team.
Vipers president Lawrence Mulindwa led the opposition by refusing to play under the new system, accusing FUFA of “disrespect, blackmail, and ridicule.” SC Villa also voiced strong reservations, saying it would participate “under protest.”
Fans have accused the federation of ignoring club concerns and misleading supporters by marketing fixtures involving boycotting clubs.
Online, the backlash has grown into a campaign with fans calling for a total boycott of league matches until FUFA reverses the reforms or formally consults stakeholders.
Some supporters of rival teams, including KCCA and SC Villa, have openly declared solidarity with Vipers, saying the reforms threaten the league’s integrity.
Lawmakers have also taken notice. Bukomansimbi South MP and Shadow Sports Minister Geofrey Kayemba Ssolo urged FUFA to “listen to all stakeholders” and called on the Ministry of Education and Sports, NCS, CAF and FIFA to mediate before the crisis affects the Uganda Cranes.
