Matchday 17 of the Uganda Premier League delivered eight fixtures across the country, but the spotlight firmly settled on Royal Park Butema, where Buhimba Saints FC hosted Police FC in a tense encounter that ended 1-1.
The match produced late drama as the hosts found a crucial equalizer deep into the game — a goal that may yet prove decisive in their battle to avoid relegation. For Buhimba Saints, the point was not just about pride, but survival.
However, the day’s most talked-about moment was not purely footballing.
The Kit Controversy
Buhimba Saints, traditionally known for their green-and-white striped jerseys, opted for a different look on the day. In an unusual twist, one player appeared in a lighter green kit distinct from that of his teammates and, interestingly, he was the man who struck the late equalizer.
The deviation sparked visible frustration among sections of the fans, who directed criticism not only at the club but, as is often the case in Ugandan football, at the match officials. In moments of controversy, referees frequently become the easy target, rarely credited when they safeguard the integrity of the game, yet swiftly condemned when controversy arises.
But were the officials at fault?
What the Regulations Say
Under Section V of the competition regulations issued by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), specifically Rule 29 on Colours, Jerseys and Strips/Kits:
- Each club must register three kits: home, alternative 1, and alternative 2.
- If kits clash, the visiting team must change.
- Goalkeepers must change if their colours clash with opponents.
- Additional specifications are governed by respective FUFA competition rules.
In this case, Buhimba’s kit did not clash with that of Police FC. Therefore, strictly under the regulations, no immediate breach warranted the abandonment of play.
Furthermore, referencing Law 4 of the IFAB Laws of the Game — which governs players’ equipment — there exists no provision mandating suspension of play under circumstances similar to those witnessed at Royal Park Butema.
Spirit of the Game Prevails
Football administration often balances the letter of the law with the spirit of the law. This season has already witnessed an incident where Onduparaka FC travelled to face Bunyaruguru with only their primary green kit, identical in color to that of the hosts. That fixture was not played, despite regulatory considerations, and was later replayed a decision many interpreted as an application of the spirit of fairness.
Against that backdrop, the officials at Royal Park Butema faced a critical judgment call. Rather than plunge the league into another boardroom dispute, they allowed the match to proceed ensuring the outcome would be decided on the pitch.
There were also reports suggesting internal administrative challenges at Buhimba Saints following a change in club ownership, including issues surrounding kit availability. While such matters remain off-field concerns, they may partly explain the unusual attire on match day.
Credit Where It Is Due
All competition organizers desire that results be determined by players, not paperwork. On this occasion, the match officials demonstrated composure, discretion, and a commitment to footballing justice. They assessed the situation, found no material breach warranting abandonment, and ensured continuity of play.
In an environment where referees are often criticised and seldom praised, this was an example of maturity in officiating.
If sanctions are deemed necessary, they fall within the jurisdiction of the league authorities and may address administrative lapses by the club. But the officials on the day deserve commendation, not condemnation.
They upheld both the laws and the spirit of the game and, in doing so, ensured that Match Day 17 will be remembered for football, not litigation.
The writer is a Retired national Fufa Elite Referee