In a dramatic turn of events, the chambers of Parliament on Thursday afternoon resonated with the resolute voice of the Speaker, Rt Hon Anita Annet Among, as she addressed the issue of the 97 billion Ugandan shillings allocated for the renovation of Namboole Stadium.
The Speaker, with unwavering determination, emphasized the need for accountability regarding the funds entrusted to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for the monumental task of rejuvenating the national stadium.
This unfolding saga comes amidst Uganda’s eagerly anticipated role as one of the host nations for the prestigious 2027 AFCON tournament.
The dreams of glory and national pride are at stake as concerns mounted over the adequacy of Namboole Stadium to meet the exacting standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Reports filtering through the hallowed halls of Parliament painted a disconcerting picture.
CAF officials, arbiters of footballing excellence, had delivered a damning verdict upon inspecting Namboole Stadium.
“Let the Minister give us a status of the progress of Namboole and let him also give us accountability of the Shs97Bn. This is a very serious issue; all Ugandans have been excited about AFCON. But at the same time, there is no way we can go and play in another country. Remember we are supposed to play with Algeria, but then, Morocco has offered us to go and play in Morocco for free. However, Algeria has said, we aren’t going to Morocco because of their issues. So, what is the way forward?” The Speaker charged.
Last year, The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) president Hon Moses Magogo urged for the termination of UPDF’s contract, citing substandard renovations, sluggish progress, and insensitivity.
As of press time, UPDF had not formally responded to the Speaker of Parliament.
