Former Uganda Cranes star Mike Mutyaba has formally challenged his provisional suspension by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), citing procedural irregularities and a lack of due process.
On March 12, FUFA announced the provisional suspension of Mutyaba alongside Ashraf Miiro, Emmanuel Kalyowa, Ashraf Mbazira, and Ivan Katende.
The decision, issued by the Investigatory Chamber of FUFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, followed allegations of match manipulation relating to Kitara FC’s 7–0 victory over Express FC.
In its communication, FUFA stated that the suspension was a “precautionary measure” pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings.
However, in a letter dated March 17, Mutyaba, through his lawyers, Ssesaazi and Company Advocates, has disputed the manner in which the suspension was effected.
The legal team has written to FUFA’s Chief Executive Officer demanding a written, dated, and signed ruling underpinning the decision.
According to the letter, the publication issued by FUFA appears to be a press release rather than a formal disciplinary ruling. The lawyers argue that it lacks key elements of an official decision, including the date of the ruling, the identity of the decision-maker, an authorized signature, and official authentication.
The lawyers further contend that Mutyaba was never formally served with any decision regarding his suspension. Instead, they say, he learned of the allegations and sanctions through public and social media channels—an approach they describe as procedurally irregular.
They also raise concerns about a violation of the right to a fair hearing, noting that Mutyaba has not been given adequate notice of the allegations, access to the evidence against him, or an opportunity to respond before the suspension was announced.
The letter criticizes what it describes as “prejudicial public statements” in FUFA’s communication, arguing that language suggesting Mutyaba “coordinated the match-fixing” undermines the presumption of innocence.
In addition, the legal team points to FUFA’s failure to disclose the evidence referenced in its publication, including a FIFA betting report and alleged betting accounts. Without access to such materials, they argue, Mutyaba cannot adequately prepare his defense.
Questions have also been raised about the legal basis of the suspension. The lawyers note that FUFA’s statement does not cite any specific provisions of the Ethics Code, disciplinary regulations, or procedural rules under which the Investigatory Chamber exercised its authority.
Mutyaba’s representatives further state that the public nature of the allegations has caused significant reputational damage to the player, emphasizing that any disciplinary process must strictly adhere to principles of fairness and natural justice.
The legal team has now requested that FUFA urgently provide a formal ruling, the legal provisions supporting the suspension, copies of all evidence relied upon, the applicable procedural rules, and proof that Mutyaba was duly notified.
They warn that, in the absence of such documentation, their client reserves the right to challenge the legality and procedural propriety of the suspension before the appropriate bodies.
FUFA has yet to issue a response to the demands.
