Moses Magogo, president of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), is facing criticism for sidelining mainstream media from covering Uganda Cranes matches at Namboole Stadium, opting instead to grant access to social media influencers and celebrities.
Journalists critical of Magogo’s administration have accused him of using media accreditation as a tool to suppress dissent, ensuring that only individuals who praise his leadership are granted access to cover national football events.
A journalist, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “Magogo doesn’t want any negative coverage. He’s turning the Uganda Cranes into a show for influencers and celebrities while ignoring the role of professional media in holding leaders accountable and informing the public.”
Media Marginalized
Reports indicate that established media houses and journalists who have questioned Magogo’s tenure at FUFA are being systematically excluded.
This includes those who have highlighted allegations of corruption, favoritism, and his consolidation of power within FUFA.
According to insiders, media passes for Cranes matches have been distributed sparingly to traditional media, while a significant number have gone to influencers with little background in sports reporting.
Another journalist remarked, “It’s no longer about football or professionalism. Magogo wants cheerleaders, not journalists. It’s troubling because fans are being fed curated narratives that don’t reflect the state of the game or FUFA’s administration.”
Financial Priorities Questioned
Critics have also raised concerns about Magogo’s financial priorities. Large sums of money have reportedly been spent on influencers and celebrity appearances at games, even as Uganda’s sports budget remains stretched.
This strategy has coincided with allegations of political interference, with Magogo leveraging his marriage to Speaker of Parliament Anita Among to secure favorable allocations to football.
Other sports, many of which have shown potential on the international stage, have reportedly been sidelined in funding discussions.
A sports official, speaking anonymously, added, “Football is receiving an unfair share of resources, largely due to Magogo’s connections. It’s hurting other sports and the athletes who rely on that funding to compete internationally.”
Praise Over Accountability
Magogo’s critics argue that his focus on influencers is part of a broader effort to reshape public perception of his administration.
By limiting access to critical journalists, he has created a bubble of praise that shields him from scrutiny over his leadership of FUFA.
These moves come amidst increasing scrutiny of Magogo’s tenure, including allegations of corruption, personal scandals, and favoritism in awarding contracts. Critics fear that sidelining the media will further entrench his control over Ugandan football, leaving little room for accountability.
