The ongoing battle between Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa and the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) is primarily centered on sweeping and controversial reforms for the 2025–26 Uganda Premier League season. Mulindwa, the president of Vipers SC and a former FUFA president, has fiercely opposed the new league format and accused the federation of disregarding clubs, corruption, and mismanagement
Core points of contention
New league format
- Three-round system: FUFA introduced a three-round system for the 2025–26 season. Vipers SC and other critics, including SC Villa, argue this was done without proper consultation and has significant flaws.
- Point reset: A major point of contention is that points from the first phase of the season do not carry over to the second phase, a change Mulindwa claims devalues clubs’ early-season performance.
- Financial risks: The clubs contend that the new format will increase fixture congestion and administrative pressures, creating financial risks, particularly for smaller squads.
Financial mismanagement claims
- Unpaid prize money: Mulindwa alleges that FUFA has failed to pay Vipers the prize money for winning the 2024–25 league title and the Uganda Cup.
- Continental travel refunds: The club also demands refunds for air travel expenses incurred during continental competitions.
- Revenue sharing: Clubs have criticised a new revenue-sharing model that directs a larger portion of gate collections to FUFA, reducing the home team’s share.
Lack of consultation and transparency
- Disrespect toward clubs: Mulindwa sent a strongly-worded letter in October 2025 accusing FUFA of “utter disrespect” and ignoring repeated petitions and concerns from Vipers.
- Media blacklisting: The letter also claimed that the club was met with “social media ridicule, blackmail, rebuke and ostracization” rather than a formal response.
- Centralized control: Mulindwa argues that the reforms are an “assault on club independence,” with FUFA attempting to dictate terms without involving key stakeholders.
Escalation and boycott
- League boycott: As a result of the impasse, Vipers SC boycotted their season-opening double-header match against Kitara FC in October 2025.
- Crisis meeting: Following the boycott, FUFA called an emergency crisis meeting to address the growing standoff with Vipers and other dissatisfied clubs.
- Historical rivalry: The dispute is also seen as a power struggle between Mulindwa and the current FUFA President, Moses Magogo, who succeeded him in 2013.
Wider implications
- League instability: The conflict has thrown the stability of the Uganda Premier League into question, affecting players, fans, and sponsors.
- Governance concerns: The battle has brought intense scrutiny to FUFA’s governance model and Magogo’s leadership style, with critics arguing for more transparency and consultation.
