Nine Referees Suspended Over Officiating Errors

Nine Referees Suspended Over Officiating Errors

 Sampson Adedeji

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Referees Disciplinary Panel has handed three-month suspensions to nine match officials following a series of costly officiating errors in the Uganda Premier League, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

According to the panel, the sanctions were imposed due to 

“breaches of match officiating standards” in fixtures that generated widespread controversy among clubs and supporters.

The most severe action stemmed from the clash between Buhimba United Saints FC and Police FC, where six officials were sanctioned.

“Six officials have been suspended for three months for breach of match officiating standards,” the panel stated.

Those affected include referee Henry Musisi, assistant referees Fred Kinyera and Samuel Mbabali, fourth official John Semakula, match commissioner Christopher Kugonza, and referee assessor Hilary Kimbugwe. 

All six officials have also been directed to undergo mandatory refresher training before returning to duty.

In another notable case, assistant referee Immaculate Ongiera was punished following the goalless draw between SC Villa and Express FC. 

She incorrectly ruled out a legitimate goal for offside a decision later confirmed as an error through video evidence which significantly impacted the outcome of the match.

Ongiera received a three-month suspension and has also been mandated to attend a refresher course.

The third incident involved the fixture between Police FC and SC Villa, where referee Okudra disallowed a valid goal despite no offside infringement. 

Police FC went on to secure a 1-0 victory. He has likewise been suspended for three months and ordered to undergo further training.

The disciplinary measures highlight FUFA’s firm stance on improving officiating standards as competition intensifies in both the title race and relegation battle across the league.