Masaka, Uganda| A community football final organized to empower youth and foster social unity in Nyendo-Kasana was violently disrupted on Saturday, drawing sharp criticism over growing restrictions on civic space.
The match, sponsored by the Lubowa Ssebina Foundation and featuring local clubs Nyendo FC and Kyalugo, was meant to cap off a sports initiative promoting youth engagement and talent development.
But police abruptly halted the event, deploying tear gas and live bullets to disperse attendees many of whom were young people and families.
Observers believe the disruption was politically motivated due to the event’s association with Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, a rising figure in the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) and an aspiring MP for Nyendo-Mukungwe.
While police cited security and procedural issues, community members say it was a targeted attempt to stifle a growing political challenger through indirect suppression.
“…This was about football and youth, not politics…,” said a local coach whose team was scheduled to play. “…The youth just wanted to celebrate their talents now we’re left with fear instead of inspiration…”
The crackdown left several injured and revived fears that civic and social initiatives linked to opposition leaders are increasingly being viewed through a political lens.
Ssebina, who also serves as a deputy bursar at Makerere University, has drawn a large following due to his foundation’s grassroots work in education, healthcare, and youth development making him a formidable rival to current area MP and NUP heavyweight Mathias Mpuuga.
NUP leaders have decried the incident as a violation of freedoms of assembly and association, pointing to a rising trend of community-targeted intimidation.
“…If even football is now political, where will young people turn to…?” asked one NUP official.
As Masaka residents grapple with the aftermath, the incident has become symbolic of the tension between youth-led civic expression and state response ahead of the 2026 elections.
Despite the disruption, Ssebina vowed to press forward.
“…We will continue creating space for youth to shine on and off the pitch…,” he said in a post-event message.