After three impactful years at the helm of Uganda Premier League side Kitara FC, Deo Kasozi has stepped down from his role as club president.
Kasozi’s future had been uncertain since he hinted at stepping aside at the start of last season.
On Monday, there was optimism within the club that he might serve the optional fourth year allowed under the club’s constitution.
However, he later confirmed his decision to leave.
“I’ll be leaving my position with immediate effect and would like to thank all the stakeholders who have enabled me to perform my role beyond expectations,” Kasozi said.
“The main reason I’m retiring is because of the club’s constitution. It states that the president governs for four years, but when I took over, I requested to serve only three. I’ve fulfilled that and feel it’s time to move on.”
Kasozi revealed he will now focus on a private sports project in Central Uganda, expected to launch in either 2027 or 2028.
Appointed ahead of the 2022/23 season, Kasozi’s tenure is widely regarded as the most successful in Kitara’s history.
Under his leadership
Kitara won the FUFA Big League and earned promotion to the Uganda Premier League.
They challenged for the UPL title in their debut season, finishing fourth.
In 2023/24, Kitara won the Uganda Cup after defeating fellow debutants NEC FC at Wankulukuku, securing qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup.
Although Kitara exited the Confederation Cup at the preliminary stage, losing 6-4 on aggregate to Al Hilal Benghazi of Libya, their performance won admirers.
Kasozi’s final season began with struggles as the club flirted with relegation.
He made decisive changes, sacking Brian Ssenyondo and appointing Wasswa Bbosa, who guided the team to a 7th-place finish with 44 points.
His leadership earned admiration across Ugandan football, and his impact at Kitara will be remembered.
As the club prepares for a new era, ASP Gilbert Nyaika has been named interim president.