The intensity of the Stanbic Uganda Cup quarterfinal between Kitara FC and BUL FC didn’t end at the final whistle.
In the aftermath of a dramatic encounter, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has handed out heavy sanctions to players from both sides following incidents of misconduct.
Kitara FC stars Titus Ssematimba, Patrick Henry Kaddu, and George Ssenkaaba have all been handed two-match bans after being found guilty of improper conduct during the heated fixture.
FUFA’s Disciplinary Panel cited their behavior as a breach of Section 43(3) of the FUFA Competitions Rules.
While they will miss the upcoming games, the federation has also issued a conditional fine of UGX 500,000 for each player—payable should they breach disciplinary rules again in the future.
BUL FC, on the other hand, faces a far more severe blow. Team captain Walter Ochora has been slapped with a 10-match suspension from all FUFA-sanctioned competitions.
The punishment comes after Ochora was found guilty of physically confronting referee Henry Musisi during the match, an act FUFA described as unacceptable and dangerous. In addition to the lengthy ban, he has also been fined UGX 1,000,000.
Left back Nicholas Mwere was also sanctioned following a similar altercation with the same official. He received a 10-match suspension and a UGX 1,000,000 fine.
However, in a show of remorse, Mwere submitted an apology and expressed regret for his actions.
The Disciplinary Panel acknowledged his contrition and decided to suspend two of the 10 matches, meaning he will serve an immediate 8-match ban along with the standard suspension for the red card he received during the game.
FUFA’s decisions underline its unwavering stance on discipline and fair play, especially in high-stakes fixtures.
With the Stanbic Uganda Cup entering its most critical phase, all eyes will be on players and officials to maintain the spirit of the game and avoid actions that could cost them more than just a place on the pitch.
