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On Sunday morning, the football governing body, FUFA, added to referees’ voices by suspending the seven-time UPL champions’ fixtures, starting with the Kampala Derby, which was set for Wednesday.
The Kampala Derby between Express FC and SC Villa became the first game affected by the referees’ decision to boycott the former’s fixtures.
On Friday, assistant referee Fahad Sekayiba was allegedly attacked by Express fans, leaving him with serious injuries, especially on the head, after the Red Eagles’ 1-1 draw with UPDF FC in the Uganda Premier League game played at Bombo Barracks Playground.
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19:21 - 27.10.2023
FOOTBALL PHOTOS: Suspected Express FC fans beat referee in draw with UPDF
After full-time, feeling disgruntled with several of Sekayiba's decisions, the fans attacked and beat him, inflicting multiple injuries.
In the aftermath of the incident on Saturday, through their umbrella body, the Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA), the match officials decided not to officiate Express’ games again until the offenders are found.
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13:19 - 28.10.2023
FOOTBALL JUST IN: Referees stage strike, swear not to officiate Express matches
Through their umbrella body, the Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA), the officials have vowed not to officiate matches involving Express, until the culprits are brought to book.
On Sunday morning, the football governing body, FUFA, added to referees’ voices by suspending the seven-time UPL champions’ fixtures, starting with the Kampala Derby, which was set for Wednesday.
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08:46 - 29.10.2023
FOOTBALL FUFA bites, Express FC matches suspended
And in a swift take of action, FUFA has suspended all matches involving Express until the culprits get apprehended.
”The FUFA Executive Committee has suspended all matches involving Express FC with immediate effect until an amicable solution on the safety and security of referees is found following ugly scenes of their Uganda Premier League match against UPDF on 27.10.2023 in Bombo,“ a FUFA statement read.
“Uganda Football Referees Association (UFRA) has consequently decided that their members (Referees) shall not be available for matches involving Express FC.”
“Express FC shall be required to co-operate with investigations by FUFA and the authorities to identify the culprits alleged to have assaulted the referee after the game.”
The statement added: “FUFA decided in the best interest of football to see that the culprits are brought to book.”
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15:02 - 28.10.2023
Moses Magogo slams brutal attack on referee by suspected Express fans
In the aftermath of the events where a group of alleged Express FC fans attacked and beat assistant referee Fahad Sekayiba, FUFA President Moses Magogo has come out to decry the heinous act.
On Saturday, Express also released a statement on the matter, distancing itself from the alleged actions of hooliganism.
“Express FC is deeply saddened by the alleged attack on referee Fahad Sekayiba after the match against UPDF FC,” Express’ statement noted.
“The club disassociates itself from any form of hooligan behaviour and condemns any act of violence in the strongest possible term.”
”The club is aware that the alleged attack took place on the referee’s way home and is not affiliated with the club in any way,” it added.
Express promised to work closely with FUFA and the other authorities to identify the culprits.
”Express FC is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment to fans, players, and officials, and violence has no place in football.”
“The club sympathises with Fahad and wishes him a quick recovery. The club will work closely with FUFA and the police to investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice if called upon.”
”We continue to seek any information that would assist us in identifying the individuals involved.”
If found guilty, this could affect what had appeared to be a good start for the Mukwano Gwabangi, who are positioned fifth with 11 points after five games.
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