Express FC fans chairman advises goalkeeper Kalyowa to stay away

Express FC goalkeeper Kalyowa - Photo Courtesy John Batanudde.

Express FC fans’ chairman Julius Bakunda has called for a full investigation by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) into the circumstances surrounding the team’s shocking 7-0 thrashing at the hands of Kitara FC in the Uganda Premier League on December 21, 2024.

The humiliating loss, saw Kitara FC dominate with George Ssenkaaba netting a hat-trick, Jude Ssemugabi adding a brace with Fred Amaku and David Ndihabwe each scoring once. Bakunda raised doubts about the team’s performance, specifically questioning the conduct of goalkeeper Emmanuel Kalyowa.

He accused Kalyowa of intentionally conceding goals, particularly pointing to Kitara’s second strike, where Ssemugabi made an unchecked run from midfield to score with ease. “I find it difficult to believe these goals were conceded without deliberate intent. The defensive lapses and the goalkeeper’s actions raise serious concerns,” Bakunda said during an appearance on NBS Sport.

In a stark warning, Bakunda advised Kalyowa not to return to the club for his own safety, citing the growing frustration and anger among fans over the team’s lackluster display.

Adding to his grievances, Bakunda questioned CEO Ashiraf Miiro’s decision to offer transportation to match officials before key matches against Kitara FC and Mbarara City FC, implying this undermined the perception of fairness in these games.

Bakunda has urged FUFA to conduct a thorough investigation to safeguard the integrity of Ugandan football and Express FC’s reputation. Kitara FC has been in outstanding form, scoring 10 goals in their last two matches against Mbale Heroes (6-0) and Maroons (4-0) while maintaining a five-match streak without conceding.

While FUFA has yet to comment on Bakunda’s demands, the incident has reignited concerns about potential match-fixing and integrity issues within the Uganda Premier League.

Express FC now finds itself at a crossroads, with fans and stakeholders calling for immediate reforms to address the team’s struggles and restore its credibility on and off the pitch.