StarTimes, the official broadcaster and title sponsor of the Uganda Premier League, has sounded the alarm over Vipers SC’s decision to opt out of the ongoing league double-header, warning that the move could significantly devalue the competition.
In an interview with NBS Sport, StarTimes Vice President Aldrine Nsubuga described the situation as a major setback for both the league’s competitiveness and its commercial worth.
“Vipers pulling out changes the dynamics, cuts down the value of the league both on the field of play and also the broadcast value,” he stated.
Nsubuga explained that the league’s structure was designed for a minimum of sixteen teams, and Vipers’ withdrawal disrupts not only scheduling but also contractual obligations tied to broadcasting and sponsorship.
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He called on all stakeholders, including FUFA, the clubs, and supporters, to work together to preserve the integrity of Ugandan football.
“It’s time for everyone not to be selfish… the fan invests time, emotions, life, merchandise. If the fan chooses to boycott, the club will be on their knees,” Nsubuga cautioned.
He sympathized with supporters who have voiced frustration over the unfolding drama, warning that such instability could undo the momentum football gained during the CHAN tournament, which reignited local passion for the game.
Clarifying StarTimes’ role in the matter, Nsubuga noted that the broadcaster’s position is strictly that of a partner, one that supports but does not control league operations.
“We don’t own, manage, or regulate the league. We are just partners providing support,” he emphasized.
Addressing recent league reforms, Nsubuga revealed that StarTimes was not consulted beforehand and would have offered insights had they been involved earlier in the process.
“We got to know about the reforms like everybody else. Maybe if we had been informed earlier, we could have advised,” he remarked.
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Ultimately, he reaffirmed that the fans remain at the heart of StarTimes’ commitment to Ugandan football.
“Our customers are the fans,” he said, underscoring that the league’s long-term success depends on keeping supporters engaged, respected, and emotionally connected to the game.
