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The National Unity Platform (NUP) has given an official update regarding the whereabouts and condition of its presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
The announcement comes amid growing concern from supporters and the public about his safety following reports of security threats and political intimidation.
Speaking to the media and party members at the NUP headquarters, Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya confirmed that Kyagulanyi is alive but facing extremely challenging circumstances due to threats from government security agencies.
His words sought to reassure the public while highlighting the precarious position the opposition leader currently finds himself in.
“I bring you greetings from our president, Robert Kyagulanyi. What I can confirm to you is that he is alive,” Rubongoya stated clearly, emphasizing that the leader remains in good health despite the pressures he is under.
The Secretary General also acknowledged the difficulty surrounding Bobi Wine’s current location. According to him, neither party officials nor state authorities know his exact whereabouts. “None of us knows where he is, and I don’t think that even the regime which claims to have good intelligence has any idea where he is,” Rubongoya added.
Rubongoya further explained that the opposition leader has been forced into hiding to protect himself from potential harm. Despite the secrecy, he emphasized that Bobi Wine’s commitment to the people and the party remains strong.
“He is alive but not well because he does not wish to be in hiding,” Rubongoya said. These words painted a picture of a leader under immense pressure, forced to navigate personal safety while maintaining his political mission.
The update comes after days of speculation and concern across Uganda. Many citizens, civil society groups, and international observers had been following rumors regarding Bobi Wine’s location, creating a climate of uncertainty and tension.
Rubongoya assured supporters that the party is doing everything it can to maintain communication with Kyagulanyi and ensure his safety. He highlighted the importance of remaining united and vigilant in the face of ongoing political threats.
“The safety of our leader is paramount. Our priority is to ensure that he is protected while continuing to engage in the political process,” Rubongoya said, emphasizing the party’s commitment to both its members and the wider Ugandan public.
He also urged citizens to remain calm and resist panic. The Secretary General stressed that while the situation is serious, it does not signify the end of the opposition’s efforts or diminish Kyagulanyi’s influence in national politics.
According to Rubongoya, security threats against opposition leaders have increased in recent weeks, creating a hostile environment that requires careful navigation. He noted that Bobi Wine’s decision to remain hidden was a strategic measure to avoid direct confrontation with security forces.
The party has called on national and international human rights organizations to pay attention to the situation, urging them to ensure that the opposition leader is not targeted or unfairly silenced. “We cannot allow political intimidation to weaken democracy or prevent voices of dissent from being heard,” Rubongoya said.
Despite being in hiding, Kyagulanyi is said to remain in contact with key party officials, providing guidance and direction for NUP activities. Rubongoya indicated that internal communication has been maintained to ensure continuity in party planning and strategy.
The NUP leadership emphasized that the party remains active and engaged across the country. Activities, rallies, and organizational meetings continue, albeit in a manner that takes into account the security challenges faced by the leadership.
Rubongoya also used the occasion to thank the supporters who have stood firm during these trying times. He noted that public vigilance and solidarity have been critical in ensuring that the party continues to operate under difficult circumstances.
“The people’s support has been unwavering. Even in these challenging times, our commitment to the public and our mission remains unshaken,” he said, highlighting the importance of unity within the party.
He reassured Ugandans that Kyagulanyi’s political vision remains intact. The leader continues to advocate for transparency, fairness, and democratic governance, despite the threats he faces personally.
Rubongoya’s update also served as a warning to government authorities, emphasizing that political intimidation will not silence the NUP or its leadership. “Attempts to weaken or frighten our leadership will fail. We remain committed to our ideals,” he stressed.
The situation has drawn reactions from both local and international stakeholders. Observers note that Uganda’s political environment has become increasingly tense, with opposition figures often facing targeted harassment and legal pressures.
In conclusion, the NUP’s update on Bobi Wine’s whereabouts highlights both the challenges and resilience of the opposition in Uganda. While the leader remains in hiding, his influence, guidance, and connection with supporters continue to shape the party’s activities and national political discourse.
Rubongoya’s statement underscores the precarious nature of political engagement in Uganda, reflecting broader concerns about safety, democratic rights, and the protection of opposition figures in a polarized environment. The public and party members alike are now waiting closely for further updates as the situation continues to unfold.
