The Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has taken a significant step toward modernizing its governance by amending its constitution.
Originally adopted on June 24, 2018, the URU Constitution provided the foundational structure for managing rugby in Uganda.
However, the evolving landscape of rugby administration, the need for financial clarity, and structural improvements made amendments necessary.
After stalling in 2023, the amendment process was revived, focusing on key areas such as financial accountability, governance structure, and decision-making processes.
While certain pressing matters, including the inclusion of the Club Rugby Trust (CRT), Regional Associations and term limits for leaders, remain unresolved, the latest changes mark a crucial milestone for URU’s future.
Key Amendments Implemented
- Name and Affiliations (Article 1.1 and 4.2)
The Uganda Rugby Union retains its official name as per Article 1.1. Additionally, the constitution continues to recognize key affiliated bodies, including the Uganda Rugby Referees Society and the Uganda Schools Rugby Association.
This ensures continuity and strengthens the role of these bodies in shaping the sport.
2. Executive Committee Composition (Article 7.2)
The governance structure remains unchanged, with the Executive Committee retaining key leadership roles such as Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Upcountry Representative and representatives from various rugby associations.
This consistency ensures that the union maintains experienced leadership while allowing for gradual improvements in governance.
- Financial Revisions (Article 8.1)
One of the most significant amendments is the formal definition of the financial year, now ending on September 30th.
This change provides financial clarity and ensures a structured approach to financial planning, budgeting, and accountability. Previously, the financial year lacked a clear timeframe, which posed challenges in financial reporting and audits.
- Annual General Meeting (AGM) Timing (Article 9.1)
To enhance governance efficiency, the AGM must now be held before the start of the playing season or no later than March 31st.
This ensures that it takes place within four months after the financial year ends, aligning financial reporting with the planning of the new rugby season.
- Decision-Making at General Meetings
Voting procedures remain largely unchanged, ensuring stability in decision-making.
- Consensus or simple majority voting** remains the standard.
- Secret ballot voting continues to be the default method unless 75% of members agree otherwise.
- The Chairman retains a casting vote in case of a tie.
- Voting by proxy remains prohibited, ensuring active participation from all stakeholders.
These amendments are a vital step in streamlining URU’s governance. The revised constitution enhances financial transparency, strengthens leadership structures, and ensures timely decision-making.
However, further work is needed to fully integrate Regional Associations, establish clear term limits for leaders and define the role of the Club Rugby Trust (CRT) in governance.
By continuing this reform process, URU is positioning itself for a more structured and sustainable future, ensuring that Ugandan rugby remains competitive and well-managed.
