Uganda Rugby Union president Andrew Owori has come under fire for taking fans for granted especially those with Kyadondo inclination. Top on the list of the rebels is Edward Kiwanuka, the face of rugby in Uganda, used by Nile Special and the union for advertising. Kiwanuka was bounced and denied access to Legends Rugby grounds over the weekend as Uganda overran Tunisia 78-17 in the Africa Gold Cup.
“I have blown my vuvuzela for Uganda in Zimbabwe, Kenya and UAE on various occasions, it was wrong when Robert Bwale, a top URU official referred to me and other fans from Kyadondo as hooligans when we had purchased our own matchday tickets,” Kiwanuka fumed as he reiterated his decision to boycott all Ruby Cranes games at Legends. “I will stay at Kyadondo where I am given respect.”
“I have started a campaign, all Hima Cement Heathens fans should not turn up for the Namibia game (kickoff on Saturday at 2pm) but rather storm Kyadondo and we support our country on screens.”
Kiwanuka’s ove for rugby started in 2007 when h was just bypassing Kyadondo Rugby grounds. “I was bored and then decided to go and watch the game, between Heathens and Kobs.The game turned out to be so nice and I also liked the place. I have not missed a game since,” he said.
For almost a decade, he has coordinated fans to follow the players to wherever the games go for Heathens and Rugby Cranes.
“For games that happen outside the country around East Africa, I solicit for shs250,000 from the fans, mobilise and arrange to have at least 50 fans along for the trip. Beyond East Africa, it is a bit expensive but I still ensure we have at least a fan going with us.”
City events guru Dixon Okello has also been attacking URU boss over cheating national team players, referring to them as ‘greedy, selfish and incompetent’.
Rugby Union CEO Ramsey Olinga was not available for comment but the team sponsors Nile Breweries had reportedly begged Mr. Kiwanuka, rugby’s number one fan to reconsider his stance.
