KCCA FC have suffered a significant setback in their Uganda Premier League (UPL) campaign after the FUFA Disciplinary Panel ruled against them for fielding an ineligible player, Gavin Kizito Mugweri, during their January 7 match against Mbarara City at Kakyeka Stadium.
The panel’s decision not only overturns KCCA’s 2-0 victory but also sees them drop from third to fourth on the league table, with their points reduced from 27 to 24.
Express, previously fourth, now leapfrog KCCA into third with 25 points.
KCCA are now level on points with URA, but the Kasasiro Boys’ better head-to-head over the Tax Collectors leaves the latter in fifth place.
Meanwhile, Mbarara City climb from 13th to 12th, earning three points and three goals to reach 17 points, overtaking Lugazi, who remain on 14 points.
This decision follows a petition by the Ankole Lions, citing Kizito’s ineligibility to feature in the Mbarara City-KCCA clash.
The right-back had accumulated three yellow cards in earlier league matches against NEC, Police, and Mbale Heroes, which, under Article 26, Subsection 9 of the FUFA Competition Rules, rendered him ineligible to participate in the game.
Despite this, Kizito played the entire match, contributing to what was initially KCCA’s first-ever win at Kakyeka Stadium through goals from Emmanuel Anyama and Etienne Katenga.
However, Mbarara City’s evidence, including match footage, referee reports, and records from the Uganda Premier League website, confirmed the violation.
The forfeiture has reshaped the standings, handing Mbarara City a vital boost in their battle against relegation, the additional points moving them closer to mid-table security.
The ruling also shines a spotlight on referee William Oloya, whose failure to report Kizito’s yellow card in the NEC match played a key role in the case.
Oloya has been suspended for six months and directed to undergo a refresher course on reporting to improve his officiating.
