Stadium security expert Dixon ‘Bond’ Okello has delivered a sharp warning against what he describes as a growing culture of “bootlicking” in Ugandan sport, calling it a silent but dangerous threat to progress.
In a strongly worded statement just days before the State of Ugandan Sport Symposium set for June 17–18 at Next Media Park, Okello decried the tendency within organizations to reward blind loyalty over competence and innovation.
“In every organization, there are those who rise by merit, and others who survive by licking boots,” Okello wrote. “They don’t challenge the status quo. They don’t bring fresh ideas. They just clap, nod, and echo whatever the boss says — right or wrong.”
Okello warned that such behavior stifles growth across the sector, pointing out that bootlickers undermine progress by silencing honest voices and protecting mediocrity.
“Bootlickers kill innovation, they silence honest voices, they protect mediocrity, and they create toxic environments,” he noted.
He emphasized that real leadership must be built on truth, accountability, and the courage to challenge ineffective systems.
“Great leaders don’t need praise singers. They need truth tellers. They need bold, competent people who respectfully disagree, ask tough questions, and offer better solutions.”
As Uganda prepares for a defining moment in its sporting landscape, Okello’s remarks highlight the importance of internal culture in shaping sustainable success. He challenged both leaders and employees within sports institutions to reflect on their contributions.
“If you’re in leadership, ask yourself: Are you growing a team of thinkers or a choir of bootlickers? If you’re an employee, ask yourself: Am I adding value or just staying safe by playing politics?”
Okello concluded by asserting that progress is driven by those who speak up, not those who play it safe.
“Real progress comes when we reward courage, not cowardice in disguise. Let’s build cultures where people rise by competence, not by compliance,” he said. “That’s why some of us have progressed — speaking out — while fitina people will take ages to catch up.”
His comments add a new dimension to the growing debate around leadership, accountability, and integrity in the Ugandan sports ecosystem — key themes expected to feature prominently at the upcoming symposium.
