Kaddu Badru Mukasa Ditches Express In Shock Move To Rival UPL Outfit

Express FC have announced the departure of head coach Kaddu Badiru Mukasa just three months after he signed a new two-year contract with the Red Eagles. 

The surprise announcement comes amid mounting speculation about the tactician’s future, and within an hour, NEC FC confirmed his appointment as their new head coach.

Mukasa’s exit marks another twist in what has been a turbulent year for the seven-time Uganda Premier League champions, who missed out on a top-eight finish last season. 

The club confirmed the development through a brief statement on Thursday morning.

 “The club confirms the departure of head coach Kaddu Badiru Mukasa,” it wrote. 

“We’re delighted for the time he has spent at the Club and we wish him the best in his endeavors,” it adds.

Mukasa joined Express at the start of last season as assistant to Baker Mbowa, before taking charge on an interim basis following Mbowa’s sacking. 

Under his interim leadership, Express displayed some of their best football in recent seasons, giving youngsters like Hakim Wandera and John Asiimwe the platform to impress. 

After being confirmed as full-time head coach in August 2025, Mukasa signed a two-year deal running until 2027.

 His task was to assemble a competitive side capable of reclaiming Express’s lost glory, but his sudden exit suggests growing uncertainty behind the scenes. Reports indicate that several key players have left the club, leaving a major rebuilding job unfinished.

Barely an hour after Express announced his departure, NEC FC broke the news that they had secured Mukasa’s signature. 

The club confirmed his appointment effective Thursday, November 6, 2025, immediately following the departure of Hussein Mbalangu, who was suspended amid allegations of divided loyalty due to his involvement with Ssingo in the Masaza Cup.

“NEC have confirmed the appointment of Kaddu Badru Mukasa as their new head coach, effective Thursday, November 6, 2025,” the club said in a statement. “KB, as he is fondly known, brings a wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and a proven winning mentality to our club.”

Mukasa’s move to NEC represents both a new challenge and a step up for the young coach. NEC, who have shown flashes of brilliance since gaining promotion, see him as the ideal man to stabilise their form and inject fresh energy into the dressing room.

 His immediate task will be to steady the squad for the remainder of the half season and build a foundation for a stronger second round in the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League campaign.

Before joining Express, Mukasa served as assistant coach at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC, where he gained invaluable top-flight and continental experience.