National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, has called on Ugandans to rise against President Yoweri Museveni’s authoritarian rule. In a statement released on February 24, 2025, the prominent opposition leader urged citizens to demand their rights and hold Museveni and his government accountable. Bobi Wine’s remarks came after a recent raid on NUP’s headquarters by security forces, marking an escalation in tensions between the opposition and the ruling government.
Bobi Wine Urges Action Against Dictatorship
Bobi Wine’s call for action was clear and urgent: “This is the time to stand up against the Museveni dictatorship.” He stressed that Ugandans must reject intimidation tactics and stand firm in their quest for freedom. He also addressed the international community, urging them to hold Museveni and his forces accountable for their actions. His message was aimed at both the Ugandan people and global democracy advocates, challenging them to stand with the oppressed.
“The time is up for Museveni and his son,” Bobi Wine declared, referring to the president’s son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is involved in military affairs. He warned that no amount of force or propaganda would deter the people’s drive toward freedom. Bobi Wine’s defiance echoed a sentiment of unwavering resolve against the ruling regime’s intimidation.
Raid on NUP Headquarters Sparks Outrage
The statement by Bobi Wine followed a disturbing raid on the NUP’s headquarters in Kavule and its leadership school in Kamwokya. The attack, allegedly authorized by President Museveni and led by his son, Muhoozi, saw security forces vandalizing party property. During the raid, valuable equipment was stolen, including computers, cameras, documents, and over 40 million Ugandan shillings in cash. Additionally, the attackers disabled the NUP’s security systems, taking hard drives that contained vital CCTV footage of the incident.
According to Bobi Wine, the attack was not just an assault on his political party but on the fundamental rights of all Ugandans who believe in democratic change. “This was an attack on every Ugandan who values freedom and the right to organize without fear,” he stated. He accused the Museveni regime of using violence and intimidation to silence opposition voices and suppress dissent.
Muhoozi’s Role in the Attack
Bobi Wine specifically pointed to Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Museveni, as the mastermind behind the violent raid. The involvement of Muhoozi, who has been a prominent military figure in Uganda, highlights the deepening ties between political power and military influence within the ruling government. Bobi Wine’s comments also raised concerns about the growing militarization of politics in Uganda under Museveni’s rule.
“We were shocked to see some of our comrades who had been abducted reappear during a press conference,” Bobi Wine shared. These comrades, including NUP members Alex Rwanyaga Rovans and Kayabula Eddie, had reportedly been detained illegally by the army’s Criminal Investigations Directorate (CMI). The return of these individuals, who had been held in military detention, brought some relief to their families but highlighted ongoing issues of unlawful arrests and detentions.
Call for the Release of Political Prisoners
Bobi Wine used the moment to demand the release of political prisoners still held by the government. He named individuals such as Achileo Kivumbi, Mugumya Gaddafi, and Wakabi Grace, who remain in detention under dubious circumstances. The opposition leader called on both the Ugandan authorities and the international community to ensure that political prisoners are freed and their rights are respected.
This event has further escalated the tense relationship between the ruling government and the opposition. Bobi Wine’s calls for action come at a time of heightened political repression, with frequent reports of arbitrary arrests, military crackdowns on political gatherings, and widespread censorship of dissenting voices.
International Community’s Role in Uganda’s Democracy Struggle
Bobi Wine has consistently advocated for international pressure on the Museveni regime to respect democratic processes and human rights. In his statement, he emphasized that the international community must stand in solidarity with the Ugandan people and take tangible steps to hold the government accountable for its abuses. His appeal underscores the growing frustration among opposition groups who feel that Uganda’s democracy is under threat.
As tensions continue to rise, many are questioning the role of international actors in Uganda’s political crisis. Bobi Wine’s remarks suggest a need for greater diplomatic engagement to ensure that Uganda remains committed to democratic principles and human rights.
Bobi Wine’s call to action represents a growing movement within Uganda to confront authoritarianism and demand change. As security forces continue to target opposition leaders, the need for unity and international support for democratic reforms is more urgent than ever. Bobi Wine’s message is clear: the struggle for freedom in Uganda is far from over, and the people’s march toward a more just and democratic society will not be silenced by fear or intimidation.
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