A NEW DAWN FOR UG CHESS – SWEARING IN

December 19, 2025
Isaac Munanira

A New Dawn for Uganda Chess: Team Bakiza Takes the Mantle

The Ugandan chess community officially turned a page this week, marking the beginning of a highly anticipated chapter in the sport’s local history. On Friday, December 19th, at the Kati Kati Restaurant in Lugogo, the newly elected Executive Committee, led by Mr. Bakiza Andrew, was officially sworn into office.

Mr Bakiza shares some highlights with a Journalist

The ceremony serves as the culmination of a hard-fought journey that began three weeks ago. Despite a clear mandate from the voters, the transition was briefly stalled by a series of petitions filed shortly after the polls. However, through the “hiccups and challenges,” the resolve of the new leadership remained unshaken, leading to Friday’s milestone event.

The New Guard

The executive team, which has pledged to elevate Ugandan chess to unprecedented heights, comprises a blend of experienced hands and passionate visionaries:

President: Mr. Bakiza Andrew
Executive Members: Mande Allan, Muwanguzi David, Okas Walter, and Nakirya Victoria.

The swearing-in was officiated by the Returning Officer, Mr. Rugyendo Brian, assisted by Mr. Musaasizi Emmanuel. In a display of sportsmanship and unity within the fraternity, the event was graced by notable figures including Dr. Oteete, a former presidential candidate in the 2021 elections.

Mr Rugyendo Brian (Right), the returning officer.

A Celebration of Commitment

The atmosphere at Kati Kati was one of cautious optimism and celebration. After the official pledges were made, guests—including representatives from various media houses—enjoyed a luncheon, providing a rare “light moment” for a community that has been focused on the intensity of the election cycle.

“This is more than just a victory for a team; it is a commitment to every player, from the grassroots to the Grandmasters, that Ugandan chess is ready for a global stage.” — Team Bakiza Statement.

Mr Bakiza at the election day – Nov 30th

The Road Ahead: Navigating the “Endgame”

While the swearing-in marks a legal and symbolic victory, the board ahead is complex. The new executive inherits a landscape where:

Outstanding Petitions: Some legal challenges remain unresolved.
Regulatory Oversight: The National Council of Sports (NCS) is still reviewing the “endgame” of the federation’s administrative processes.
Official Handover: A formal handover ceremony from the outgoing administration is expected in the coming days to ensure a smooth transition of assets and records.

The Bakiza-led team has made it clear they are ready to “wade through” these administrative hurdles to focus on their core mission: professionalizing the league, securing sponsorships, and nurturing young talent.

What’s Next?

As the “official handover” date nears, the chess fraternity watches with bated breath. With the clocks now running on their term, the new executive has the monumental task of turning their “great pledges” into tangible moves on the board.