The management of Namboole Stadium has sparked controversy by denying a New Year’s Passover prayer event from taking place at the newly refurbished facility.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some expressing disappointment and others supporting the management’s stance.
The controversy comes as Uganda prepares to host the CHAN (African Nations Championship) finals in Kampala, with Namboole Stadium expected to be one of the main venues.
Critics are questioning the management’s decision, citing the stadium’s role as a public facility that should be accessible to all.
“The management had already agreed with the client and received partial payments. What caused the turnaround?” Musakira William asked on Twitter.
Others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the country’s image as it prepares to host a major international football tournament.
However, some have defended the management’s decision, citing the need to prioritize sports events.
Francis Ongom commented, “We need our Namboole for strictly sports, not any other activities. They don’t charge entrance fees, so let them look for open grounds for prayers.”
Dr. Joseph Sserwadda of Victory Church Ndeeba, the host of the passover night prayers, expressed shock and disappointment at the management’s decision.
“Our ministry had a working relationship of close to 15 years, and nothing of the sort had ever happened,” he said adding that no formal communication was made to him, except his team being bounced by security operatives on Christmas evening as they had gone to make the final site visit on how they will pulloff and setup equipment for the long awaited event.
Despite the setback, Sserwadda secured a last-minute venue on the shores of Lake Nabugabo in Rubaga and is working to prepare the new location for the event.
The management of Namboole Stadium has yet to comment on the reasons behind their decision.
