Women’s football teams built on school foundations are rarely associated with indiscipline or acts of violence. Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, for instance, has over the years maintained an admirable record in the league, with no notable incidents involving altercations with opponents or match officials.
However, this standard has not been upheld across the board. Teams such as Tooro Queens, Olila, and Lady Doves have in recent times been cited in incidents involving attacks on opponents and match officials, often attributed to frustration following defeats or the actions of unruly fans.
A disturbing incident occurred on Matchday 16 of the 2025/2026 FUFA Women Super League season, when Amus College WFC hosted Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC at Amus College Stadium in what was Match No. 91 of the campaign.
To viewers following the game remotely, the match appeared thrilling and dramatic. Kawempe Muslim Ladies staged a late comeback from a 1–0 deficit to secure a 2–1 victory, scoring an equaliser with just two minutes left in normal time before netting the winner in the final minute of the four added minutes.
However, for those present at the stadium, tensions had been building long before the final whistle. The home supporters, largely students of Amus College, displayed hostility toward the match officials, seemingly under the misguided belief that referees should favour the home team.
As the match slipped away from their side, the referee became a target of growing anger and frustration.
At the final whistle, the situation turned violent. The centre referee, Mr Tumuhaise John Baptist, was physically assaulted. He was shoved from behind and struck on the head by a home supporter.
Shockingly, reports indicate that the chaos was instigated by individuals identified as stewards, persons tasked with ensuring safety and order during the match.
This incident is not isolated. Several teams have previously raised concerns regarding the conduct of Amus College supporters during home fixtures.
There are also claims that some fans act with impunity, allegedly boasting that the club’s ownership is influential, including links to a Member of Parliament, and therefore beyond accountability.
Responsibility now lies with the centre referee, Mr Tumuhaise John Baptist, and the match assessor, Mr Haruna Kebba, to provide a comprehensive and factual report on the incident.
Violence against match officials is a serious breach of football regulations and undermines the integrity of the game.
Firm sanctions against Amus College WFC may be necessary to deter future misconduct and to uphold discipline, safety, and respect within women’s football in Uganda.
Photo Credit: Jale Morgan
