MBARARA — March 28, 2026: Confusion and frustration engulfed participants of the Mbarara City Marathon after the event was abruptly cancelled on the day it was scheduled to take place, leaving more than 500 runners stranded in western Uganda.
The marathon, organised by Mbarara City Marathon under the banner of Mbarara City Go, had attracted runners from across the country, many of whom had already gathered at the starting and finishing points near the Mugaba Heritage Site.
Police intervene over safety concerns
According to information circulating on social media platform X, the event was halted following intervention by police under the Rwizi Regional command over safety concerns.
Organisers had reportedly been advised by Uganda Athletics Federation to hold the marathon on Sunday instead of Saturday to better manage road safety. However, this guidance was allegedly not followed.
Security authorities subsequently stepped in, stopping the event before it could proceed.
Over 500 runners stranded
Posts online indicated that more than 500 runners who had travelled from different districts, including Kasese and other parts of western Uganda, were left stranded without clear communication.
Some participants expressed disappointment after preparing for and even partially completing their runs.
“Hundreds are stuck in Mbarara after the marathon was cancelled,” one user posted, while another noted that a runner had already completed a 21-kilometre distance before learning the race would not proceed.
Others gathered outside the Mugaba Heritage Site, awaiting direction from organisers.
CEO reportedly arrested
Unconfirmed reports circulating online further alleged that the marathon’s Chief Executive Officer, Dickens Friday, had been taken into police custody.
The allegations include failure to provide promised runners’ kits despite payments, unlawful organisation of the event, and possible misuse of sponsorship funds, including those reportedly from partners such as MTWA Uganda.
Authorities had not yet issued an official statement on the arrest by press time.
Participants demand accountability
Several participants took to social media demanding refunds and accountability from organisers, citing logistical failures and lack of communication.
Complaints also centred on missing race kits and unclear event coordination, raising concerns about event planning and management standards.
Event credibility questioned
The incident has sparked broader concerns about the organisation of large public sporting events in Uganda, particularly around safety compliance, coordination with authorities, and protection of participants.
As of Sunday afternoon, organisers had not released an official statement addressing the cancellation or the fate of participants’ payments.
Situation still developing
The developments remain fluid, with much of the available information based on social media reports that are yet to be independently verified.
Observers say further clarity is expected from police and organisers as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the cancelled marathon.
