Ugandan football could be on the brink of a major disruption following unconfirmed but credible reports from the grapevine indicating that referees are planning to take industrial action during the ongoing 2025/2026 season.
This development comes in the wake of increasing cases of assaults on match officials, coupled with a surge in suspensions and bans that many referees believe are unfair and demoralizing.
According to sources within the refereeing fraternity, frustration has reached a breaking point. One top referee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, painted a grim picture of the current working environment.
“We cannot work in an environment where documents about suspensions and bans are more frequent than moments of appreciation for the sacrifices we make. We risk our lives for this game, yet we are constantly threatened and there is no morale at all. At times, decisions are made based on reactions rather than facts, just to please teams.”
The growing discontent is particularly pronounced among elite referees, many of whom feel they are being “thrown under the bus” by the very system meant to protect and guide them.
There is a strong perception that the Referees’ Disciplinary Panel (RDP) lacks independence, with claims that it often operates in favor of those who appoint it.
Referees allege that even when one is cleared of wrongdoing, the consequences are subtle but severe being quietly sidelined or, as commonly referred to in football circles, (“put in the fridge.”)
Further compounding the issue is a perceived silence from top refereeing authorities, many of whom are themselves former referees.
Figures such as recently retired FIFA referee Ssali Mashood, now serving as Referees’ Manager in charge of development, and Brian Miiro Nsubuga, also a retired FIFA referee, have come under criticism from within the fraternity.
Referees argue that despite having firsthand experience of the challenges on the pitch, these leaders have rarely come out publicly to defend or protect match officials in times of crisis.
Instead, officials point to a pattern where communication from leadership is largely limited to disciplinary actions either announcing suspensions, bans, or referrals to the RDP.
This, referees say, contrasts sharply with practices in other football jurisdictions, where federations and refereeing bodies actively engage the public, clarify decisions, and stand by their officials during controversy.
“There is a feeling of betrayal,” another source revealed. “If those who were once in our shoes cannot stand with us now, then who will? It seems like referees have become scapegoats for football politicians used to absorb pressure and criticism from clubs and fans.”
“Bajje bajjefuyile munange nabo balina Abaana babalete bafuwe” lossly translated let them also come officiate the matches or bring their kids to officiate them” from one referee who was attacked by fans in a regional league match.
The situation has reportedly led to serious internal discussions among referees, with many now considering industrial action as a last resort to force change.
Their demands, though not yet formally outlined, are understood to center on protection from violence, fair and transparent disciplinary processes, improved communication from leadership, and greater respect for their role in the game.
Should referees follow through with this action, it could have far-reaching implications for Ugandan football. Matches across various leagues, including the Uganda Premier League, could face postponement or cancellation, bringing the competition calendar to a standstill.
PHOTOS: A match official assaulted during a Buganda Regional League match (courtesy):
