The defeat of Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) president Moses Muhangi in the Kampala Central parliamentary race has reignited debate within the boxing fraternity over the future of a sport already grappling with deep-rooted challenges.

Muhangi, who ran as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections, had positioned his bid as more than a political ambition. For many in boxing, it was seen as a rare opportunity to secure direct representation in Parliament—a platform that could have amplified long-standing calls for increased funding, better infrastructure, and stronger athlete welfare policies.

Instead, the Kampala Central seat was won by Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Minister Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, the NRM flag bearer, who polled 22,332 votes, narrowly defeating NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya with 18,242 votes. Other contenders included Agaba Muzoora, Abraham Luzzi, and Muhangi himself. Following the announcement of results, Muhangi alleged that the process was marred by electoral irregularities, claims that have yet to be formally resolved.

A Blow to Boxing’s Political Hopes

Ugandan boxing has long struggled with limited government funding, poor training facilities, and inconsistent policy support despite producing talented fighters capable of competing regionally and internationally. Muhangi’s possible entry into Parliament had raised hopes that these issues would finally be debated and addressed at the highest legislative level.

His loss, therefore, is widely viewed as a setback—one that could widen what many in the sport describe as an already growing “policy gap” between boxing and national decision-makers.

“Boxing doesn’t just lack money; it lacks a voice,” said one senior boxing administrator. “Muhangi in Parliament would have meant someone speaking our language where budgets and laws are made.”

Fear of a Growing Leadership Vacuum

Within the boxing community, concerns are mounting that the defeat could compound existing problems. Without a dedicated boxing advocate in Parliament, stakeholders fear slower progress on critical reforms such as athlete insurance, post-career support, gym regulation, and international exposure.

Grassroots boxers—particularly those from Kampala’s informal settlements—had rallied behind Muhangi’s candidacy, viewing it as a bridge between the ring and national leadership. His loss has left uncertainty over who will now champion their concerns with the same urgency.

Not the End of the Fight

Despite the disappointment, Muhangi remains UBF president, a role that still places him at the center of the sport’s administration. Analysts argue that while the parliamentary door has closed for now, his influence within boxing structures remains significant.

Some observers believe the loss could even sharpen focus within the federation, pushing for stronger internal reforms and more aggressive engagement with government institutions outside Parliament.

“The problems didn’t start with this election, and they won’t end with it,” noted a veteran coach. “The question is whether this loss becomes a setback—or a rallying point.”

A Pivotal Moment for Ugandan Boxing

As Hajjat Minsa Kabanda begins another term in Parliament running until 2031, Ugandan boxing finds itself at a crossroads. Muhangi’s electoral defeat has exposed how heavily the sport had pinned its hopes on political representation—and how vulnerable it remains without it.

Whether the loss deepens the challenges facing boxing or sparks renewed unity and advocacy within the sport will depend on how its leaders, athletes, and stakeholders respond. For now, the unanswered question lingers: has Ugandan boxing missed its best chance yet to be heard where it matters most?