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This realignment, coupled with the club missing the FUFA Club Licensing deadline on Monday, July 17, has left the team's Premier League future hanging in the balance.
As the fates and fortunes of Uganda's top football teams sway with unexpected turns, the cross-town rivalry between Onduparaka FC and Arua Hill in Arua City is set to take a dramatic twist.
According to reports, Onduparaka FC is lurking in the background to grab the opportunity to replace Arua Hill in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
The rumours that are gathering ground indicate that Onduparaka are exploring the idea of acquiring Arua Hill’s spot in the top flight, if an agreement can be reached.
Arua Hill, recently confirmed a sale of 49% shares to new partners, Cayman Global Ventures, for a total value of about Shs. 6.4b ($1.75 million), sparking excitement among the faithful Kongolo fans.
However, this major move has led to questions regarding the Leopards' future in the Premier League.
Cayman Global Ventures CEO, John Smith, subsequently revealed that the new direction of the club is primarily focused on developing a robust Academy.
This realignment, coupled with the club missing the FUFA Club Licensing deadline on Monday, July 17, has left the team's Premier League future hanging in the balance.
Arua Hill resolute about future
In response to the brewing storm of uncertainty, Arua Hill CEO, Pius Bamwange, remains defiant about the club's league participation, stating, “We have resolved to play in the League next season.”
While details from the club's meeting on Tuesday to decide the future remain under wraps, Bamwange confirmed their intent to write to FUFA requesting an extension to fulfill the Licensing requirements.
The CEO reassured fans and the media alike, claiming, “The situation is not worse as you may read in the media.”
“We still have players and we are actually in talks to renew some contracts and also bring in new faces.”
Players such as Richard Anyama, Faizul Ibrahim, Steven Kabuye, and Rashid Kawawa are still contracted with the Kongolo.
However, several others, including Rashid Toha, have their contracts expired and have confirmed their exit from the club.
Despite the difficult past season which saw players enduring months without pay, Bamwange insisted there will be enough finances to sustain the team in top flight.
He added, “We are hopeful that the Federation will listen to our request so that we compete next season.”
FUFA Competitions Director Hajjat Aisha Nalule confirmed the possibility of Arua Hill getting an extension on appeal but chose to wait on the decision from the Licensing Committee.
If the appeal is lodged and accepted, Arua Hill may face a fine of about Sh2m.
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