In a recent turn of events, the FUFA Disciplinary Panel has wielded the banhammer, imposing a formidable two-year ban on three fervent fans of Express Football Club. This draconian measure, which prohibits their participation in any football-related activities, is a consequence of their reprehensible actions after the Uganda Premier League match between UPDF FC and Express FC on October 27, 2023, at Bombo Military Barracks Grounds.
The trio in the spotlight, namely Mukenya Noah, Zimula Sulaiman, and Nkata Abasi, stand accused of assaulting referee Fahad Sekayuba. The assailants, reportedly discontent with both the match result and the officiating, unleashed a brutal attack on Sekayuba while he was en route to Kampala after officiating the intense encounter that culminated in a one-all draw.
The gravity of their actions is further emphasized by legal proceedings initiated against Mukenya and Zimula. The two found themselves in the dock at the magistrate’s court in Matugga, facing charges that led to their remand until November 28, 2023. Meanwhile, Abasi Nkata remains elusive, adding a layer of intrigue to this unfolding saga.
Express FC, commendably, has not shied away from its responsibility. The club not only offered its full cooperation during the investigations to identify the assailants but also played a pivotal role in bringing them to justice. This stance by Express FC has not gone unnoticed by FUFA, as evidenced by the statement released by the disciplinary committee.
FUFA, in its wisdom, has mandated Express FC with a task that extends beyond the confines of the football field. The club is now the bearer of the responsibility to disseminate the sanctions imposed on the trio through all digital media platforms and prominently at their home stadium. The directive takes a formidable form, including the display of clear pictures of the perpetrators measuring a minimum of 20cm by 20cm for the entire duration of their ban.
Express FC has been handed a tight deadline of 48 hours to implement the panel’s decision, with a stern warning of potential sanctions looming if the club falters in compliance. The ultimatum is crystal clear – full cooperation with any authority is non-negotiable, and the club must ensure the seamless execution of the imposed sanctions. The FDP’s message is unambiguous: failure to comply will result in sanctions against the club.
In conclusion, the FUFA Disciplinary Panel’s decision serves as a resounding statement against violence and indiscipline within the footballing community. Express FC, having navigated the storm of this incident, now faces the challenge of being both the enforcer and messenger of justice. The next chapters of this saga will undoubtedly shape the narrative of how footballing institutions deal with acts of aggression and uphold the spirit of fair play.
