The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has revealed that the dismissal of Uganda Cranes midfielder Khalid Aucho has no ‘political inclination’ as is being claimed by some circles.
On Friday, Aucho was dismissed from the Cranes Camp for failure to adhere to the National team Code of Conduct and FUFA Circular dated 4th March 2021.
“The decision taken by FUFA against Aucho has no political inclination as claimed by the player and in some media outlets,” FUFA says in a statement.
Aucho refused to board the official means of transport organised to pick him from Entebbe International Airport to the team camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel-Kisasi and has not even reported to camp since his arrival in the country.
The statement adds, “Permission for players to miss from camp is only granted by the Head Coach, in this case, player Khalid Aucho had to follow the same procedure. Unfortunately, he did not. Aucho was dismissed from the current Cranes camp but may be considered for future National team engagements.”
FUFA’s statement followed claims by NUP President Bobi Wine, who alleged the midfielder is a victim of state prosecution.
Uganda Cranes is preparing for two crucial AFCON Qualifiers against Burkina Faso and Malawi due next week.
Aucho’s club Misr El Makkasa and Egypt Football Association have been informed about the decision and a return air ticket has been issued to him for his travel back to Egypt.
FUFA also says it was mindful of the players’ health, “with the current Covid-19 situation, the health of the entire contingent in camp is paramount. All players were directed to enter camp upon arrival in the country to avoid any possible spread of the virus.”