URU stands firm on debt, referee manager decisions
Umpire Sauda Adiiru (L) talks to Kobs’ Oscar Kalyango (C) Heathens’ Dennis Mugambe and Michael Wokorach during a rugby league clash last season. Uganda Rugby Union claims the allocation of games to the referees is unfair. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA
KAMPALA. Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has trashed claims that it owes Uganda Rugby Referees Society (URRS) up to Shs54million. URU has also appointed Robert Bwali as the new referee manager.
“We have asked them to send us a break down showing how the Shs54 million came but they have not in 11 days. We have looked at the audited accounts and the total does not reflect anywhere,” explained URU CEO Ramsey Olinga.
But referee development manager Jaco Chagga says the breakdown was sent ‘but the union is playing games.’
“The breakdown was sent. It beats my understanding if they still say nothing has been received up to date,” Chagga said, adding that the referee society had petitioned National Council of Sports (NCS) to intervene in the confusion.
“The response from NCS has been positive as they have promised to settle this as early as possible. Going to court is the last option if NCS fails but I am sure they will deal with it,” said Chagga.
Bwali’s appointment means he will be in charge of referee allocation, education and assessment which has been the work of the referee body.
“He (Bwali) was brought in to streamline management. Many referees have been complaining about not getting their money yet it had been channeled through the referee society,” stated URU head of communications Kamal Sabuni.
According to Sabuni, other referees have been told lies that the union does not cater for some games, especially those in the women’s league, yet the treasurer always picks money for those game.
“Also, the allocation of games has been very unfair. One referee can be allocated four games a weekend to earn more money while others are getting no games at all,” he added.
