David GOMBE
The newly sworn-in Bukoto East Member of Parliament, Babirye Kityo Sarah, has vowed to fight for the growth and protection of Uganda’s sports industry.
The former Uganda Netball Federation president made the remarks during a thanksgiving ceremony held at her home in Maya, Mpigi District, shortly after taking oath as Member of Parliament.
Babirye said she intends to use her position in Parliament to advocate for sportsmen and women, sports administrators and federations facing challenges within the industry.
“I am a sports woman and for life, I am back to give you all my support. I am going to make sure that as a sports woman I support the sports fraternity. In Parliament, I am back on the team where I won various trophies in Netball, golf and Volleyball. I am going to plan for sports and make sure young talented youths benefit.”
The outspoken legislator revealed that during her tenure as Uganda Netball Federation president between 2021 and 2023, she experienced what she described as mistreatment from authorities in the sports sector.
“When I was Netball Federation President, I was mistreated went to every member and no body helped me. I tried those in the NRM they did not even those in the opposition. The period I spent in Netball, I saw every form of corruption but I am back to fight for what is right. So as a victim of that I am here to listen to, serve you, guide and fight for you.” Said Babirye
She says her personal experience has now motivated her to stand up and fight for justice and accountability in sports.
“My personal life has been a motivating factor. The best thing to ever happen in my life is when I was elected as Member of Parliament and after I lost then by the grace of God I was voted once again. The experience outside parliament has taught me a lot and no amount of money could change my mind. I am back to fight for justice and accountability in the sports fraternity.” Noted Babirye
Babirye further called upon sports stakeholders across the country to work closely with her in identifying and addressing challenges affecting the sector.
Her return to Parliament has been welcomed by several figures in the sports fraternity, particularly within the netball community, who believe her experience as both a player and administrator gives her an advantage in advocating for the sector.
Netball stakeholder Denis Mpoza described Babirye as a passionate and knowledgeable sports leader who understands the challenges affecting athletes and administrators.
Former Netball Federation delegate Charles Balise Kirunda and Sports journalist Phiona Namiiro praised Babirye for her transparency.
Babirye previously served in Parliament between 2016 and 2021 as the Youth Member of Parliament for Central Region before returning as the elected representative for Bukoto East Constituency.
