Uhuru backtracks, to run for UPBC presidency

UPBC president Salim Uhuru will run again for presidency after backtracking on his decision not to seek another term | Courtesy photo

Boxing Uhuru backtracks, to run for UPBC presidency

Shafic Kiyaga 21:53 - 23.02.2023

Uhuru had previously cited his busy schedule as a reason for not seeking a second term, but after reportedly being urged by members of the boxing community to stay on, he has decided to run again.

The Uganda Professional Boxing Commission (UPBC) is set to hold its long-awaited annual general meeting (AGM) next month, after a delay of almost four years.

The commission's president, Salim Uhuru, who was initially reluctant to seek a second term, could go unopposed in the election.

Uhuru had previously cited his busy schedule as a reason for not seeking a second term, but after reportedly being urged by members of the boxing community to stay on, he has decided to run again.

The commission, which is required to hold an AGM promptly each year or no later than six months after the due date, has not held one since 2018, when Uhuru assumed the presidency.

While the Covid-19 pandemic may have contributed to the delay, the commission was also due to hold an AGM in 2022, which was not held.

Uhuru has assured the press that the AGM will take place in March, and has expressed his readiness to continue serving, though he is limited to two consecutive terms under the commission's constitution.

“I assure you this time we shall have the AGM in March,” Uhuru provided his assurance.

“We must organise the elective assembly. It’s been over-delayed. I am ready but I don’t know why others fear the assembly,” Uhuru said.

Despite his confidence, others have expressed concern that the lack of opposition could lead to complacency and a lack of accountability within the UPBC.

It should be remembered, that Uhuru and his executive were unopposed for their election into office in March 2018.

Aside from the election of new officials, the AGM will also be tasked with filling the position of boxers' representative, which has been vacant since the death of

Isaac Zebra Ssenyange in December 2020.

Despite the challenges faced by the UPBC in recent years, Uhuru's tenure has seen some notable achievements, including hosting the Africa Boxing Union Convention in 2018 and having his treasurer Maureen Mulangira appointed as secretary general of the Africa Boxing Union.