The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has claimed that some individuals are attempting to organise violent actions by football fans in a bid to discredit the new Uganda Premier League (UPL) format.
This season, FUFA introduced a new three-round league system aimed at making the competition “faster, fiercer, and fairer.” The format features a one-leg first round, followed by a home-and-away second round where the teams are divided into two groups- the top and bottom eight.
However, the new structure has faced opposition from several clubs, including Vipers SC, and sections of fans on social media, some of whom have called for a boycott of the league.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FUFA alleged that certain individuals are trying to manipulate the competition and incite unrest.
“The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has 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 said.
The football governing body further claimed that the same individuals are planning violent incidents around stadiums to disrupt matches.
“There are also efforts being made to organise violent actions by fans in and around football facilities. Such acts do not only contravene the football regulations and the 2023 National Sports Act but may also interrupt public peace and order,” the statement added.
FUFA urged all stakeholders to avoid involvement in such activities and to report any suspicious approaches.
“This statement serves to advise the various stakeholders not to engage in these criminal acts. Any stakeholder who is approached is required by football regulations and the national laws to report such incidents to the Uganda Police and to FUFA,” the federation said.
The development comes at a time when reigning UPL champions, Vipers SC, continue to boycott matches under the new format.
Since the start of the season, fan attendance has noticeably declined, with many attributing the low turnouts to dissatisfaction with the new league structure.
Several stakeholders have called on FUFA and Vipers SC to engage in dialogue and find a lasting solution in the best interest of the league’s growth.
