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Ssekitoleko showcased his resilience and determination by making a total lift of 227 kg, marking his official comeback to the weightlifting scene.
Julius Ssekitoleko made a triumphant return to the weghtlifting with an impressive performance at the national championships held at Ultimate Fitness Center Gym in Bugolobi over the weekend.
The embattled weightlifter who made headlines during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, was given the green light to compete after being granted a pardon.
Ssekitoleko showcased his resilience and determination by making a total lift of 227 kg, marking his official comeback to the weightlifting scene.
Ssekitoleko, who had been out of competition for two years, expressed his gratitude to the Uganda Weightlifting Federation (UWF), the National Council of Sports, the Uganda Olympic Committee, and the Ministry of Education for allowing him to participate once again.
He also acknowledged the support he received from his employer, Ultimate Fitness Centre, which provided him with the opportunity to continue training and nurturing his career as a gym instructor.
"I am happy to be back and accepted into national engagements," said Ssekitoleko after the event.
"I thank my employer, Ultimate Fitness Centre, the ministry, NCS, UOC, UWF, my family, and all the individuals who stood by me when I encountered difficulties.
“I promise to represent the country well and be able to inspire other sportsmen when I retire," he added.
Salim Musoke, the president of UWF, expressed his delight at Ssekitoleko's return and commended his performance.
Musoke also assured that if Ssekitoleko meets the international qualification criteria, he will once again be considered for the national team.
He extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed to Ssekitoleko's rehabilitation and reform.
It was just over a year ago when the 26-year-old weightlifter vanished from Uganda's training camp in Tokyo ahead of the Japan 2020 Olympics, causing significant concern and triggering an international search.
Ssekitoleko was later apprehended, deported, imprisoned, and eventually bailed out of court in Kampala.
He was then suspended from competition, but his return points towards a potential return to international competitions, though it remains unclear whether he will be allowed to represent Uganda at the Olympics.
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