Controversies lead to postponement of Uganda Motocross Club elections
Akena, elected president of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs in Uganda (FMU) in May, no longer holds authority within UMX, per constitutional rules.
Organising committee members Denise Baliddawa (left), Paul Kaiggwa and Peter Ndiwalana deliberate before postponing the elections. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
The Uganda Motocross Club (UMX) has postponed its general elections, originally intended to fill key leadership positions, including that of former chairperson Jimmy Akena.
Akena, elected president of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs in Uganda (FMU) in May, no longer holds authority within UMX, per constitutional rules. His former assistant, Joseph Mwangala, also joined the FMU committee, creating another vacancy.
The elections, held at Kati Kati Restaurant in Lugogo on November 9, faced significant issues. Of the 39 attendees, 19 members were unexpectedly absent from the voters’ register despite having reportedly met all membership requirements, including paying the annual subscription fee.
This group, primarily parents of riders, included notable individuals like Dabella Apolot and musician Haruna Mubiru. Discontent over the missing delegates led to heated discussions, prompting security intervention.
Additionally, rider parents objected to the election’s short notice period, which violated the club’s constitutional rule requiring a minimum 14-day announcement for elections, rather than the six days given. Due to these irregularities, returning officer Herbert Rutagwera postponed the election to the following Saturday, allowing time to rectify these issues and ensure all eligible members are included.
Positions up for election include treasurer, general secretary, competitions secretary, women’s secretary, marketing and sponsorship officer, and club secretary, with candidates like Paul Kaiggwa, Denise Baliddawa, Carol Nabwami, Amos Wekesa, and Collins Nsubuga in contention.