By Musa Kikuuno — WhatsApp: 0756322265
Jinja Progressive Academy (Jipra)’s abrupt disqualification from the 2025 Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) football championships has sparked debate—not only over the school’s alleged misconduct but also about fairness, and football politics in Uganda.
According to USSSA, Jipra was found guilty of two violations after an investigation by the Games Organizing Committee:
Fielding ineligible players — specifically, Isabirye Adrian and Ntege Musa, who were said to be suspended due to accumulating two yellow cards each.
Engaging in violent conduct , including the assault of match officials and incitement of crowd violence, violating USSSA Rules 8.1 and 8.2.
The legitimacy of disqualifying Jipra players based on yellow card suspensions is questionable. During the mandatory semi-final preparatory meeting at Ngora High School—attended by Jipra, Buddo SS, and Bukedea Comprehensive—it was agreed to scrap the rule regarding suspension for accumulated yellow cards ahead of the semi-finals a decision again ignored during Jipra’s disqualification.
Jipra also raised serious concerns about the referees assigned to officiate their semi-final match against St. Mary’s Kitende. Despite the complaints made through their games teacher, USSSA officials ignored these concerns. The poor refereeing in that particular match reportedly contributed to heightened tensions and ultimately violent incidents.
Further controversy surrounds St. Mary’s Kitende, a top contender that did not attend the preparatory meeting but rejected all the amendments made there without facing any disciplinary consequences. This inconsistency suggests a selective enforcement of rules.
Jipra is a powerhouse in both Busoga and Ugandan youth football, developing national-level talents like Okello Richard, captain of Uganda’s U17 national team and a key player for BUL FC Junior Team. Okello recently led Uganda to qualify for the FIFA U17 World Cup, a historic first for Uganda, highlighting Jipra’s vital role in football development.
This disqualification also denies Jipra and Busoga the opportunity to participate in the FEASSA Games, despite having qualified, limiting these youthful and talented boys from exposing their skills at the East African level and beyond.
While discipline is necessary, enforcement must be fair and transparent, especially when it impacts schools nurturing national talent. It is unfair to punish one school harshly while excusing others under similar or worse circumstances.
As Uganda prepares for its historic FIFA U17 World Cup debut, a pressing question remains:
Was Jipra’s disqualification truly about discipline—or a calculated move to frustrate Busoga’s football development?
