Vipers, Villa, NEC Storm Out as FUFA Pushes Through UPL Reforms

The 2025/26 Uganda Premier League (UPL) season will run under a new format after a tense meeting on Tuesday at Serena Hotel, Kampala, where 13 of the 16 top-flight clubs voted in favor.

The meeting, attended by FUFA President Moses Magogo, federation officials and UPL Club heads, was marked by drama as three clubs—Vipers SC, SC Villa, and NEC FC—stormed out in protest.

Speaking on behalf of the dissenting clubs, Vipers SC president Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa accused FUFA of coercing teams into accepting the changes.

“This was supposed to be a follow-up meeting from last week, but it was clear FUFA already had a position,” Mulindwa said. “After delivering my remarks, I had to walk out because I did not agree with the direction being taken.”

He further claimed the matter had been politicized, alleging that government-owned clubs were pressured into supporting the reforms.

“We have about eight government institutions represented in the league, and orders came from the top that they must back the new format,” he said. “Some chairpersons privately admitted they did not support the idea but had no choice. FUFA then went as far as branding us as government opposition with hidden political agendas. That is uncalled for. We are simply raising genuine concerns about the league.”

Mulindwa insisted he could not allow his reputation to be tainted by what he described as unfair allegations. “I have been in this game for a long time and contributed a lot to football. I cannot let my name be dragged into such traps.”

FUFA president Moses Magogo, however, dismissed the allegations of coercion.

“I don’t know about any calls being made to institutional clubs. Personally, I did not call anyone,” Magogo said. “We simply circulated information, and some clubs responded.”

Magogo said FUFA’s long-term strategy is to create a more competitive and marketable league.

“The reforms are being financed by the Sh3.4 billion we have raised, not government money,” he explained. “These resources are intended to bridge gaps, cover secretariat costs, boost marketing and media for the league, and even introduce locker-room bonuses for players. The idea is to build a product that can attract sponsors, TV rights, and eventually generate more money for the clubs.”

He added that FUFA will also lobby government for possible financial support to clubs.

“Introducing change is never easy. It causes anxiety and resistance, but in two or three years, I believe this story will be told differently,” Magogo said.

On the three clubs that walked out, Magogo maintained FUFA would continue to engage them. “They are our members and important stakeholders. We need them in our long-term plan, and we shall keep talking until they come on board.”