State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has made a bold and controversial statement regarding National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine. While appearing on Radio 4, the minister claimed that the opposition leader is currently hiding in Nairobi.
Balaam Barugahara said that instead of staying away, Bobi Wine should return to Uganda and consider working with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s government. He argued that this would allow Bobi Wine to play a direct role in national development.
According to Balaam, Bobi Wine is not an ordinary politician. He described him as a good leader with influence, energy, and the ability to mobilize people, especially the youth across the country.
The minister said it is unfortunate that such leadership potential is being wasted in opposition politics and exile-like situations. He insisted that Uganda needs unity and cooperation more than constant political confrontation.
“Bobi Wine is hiding in Nairobi, but I advise him; he’s a good leader and I believe he can contribute to Uganda’s development if he comes and joins President Museveni’s government and asks to be deployed in an official capacity,” Balaam said during the radio interview.
Balaam emphasized that President Museveni has a history of working with people from different political backgrounds. He said the government is open to anyone willing to serve the country, regardless of past political differences.
He argued that joining government does not mean betrayal, but rather choosing a practical path to serve citizens directly. According to him, leadership is about impact, not slogans.
The minister also said Bobi Wine’s large following could be used positively if he worked within government structures. He claimed this would help bridge the gap between the state and young people.
Balaam further stated that Uganda’s challenges require collaboration from all capable leaders. He said fighting the government from outside limits one’s ability to bring real change.
He criticized what he called “politics of resistance,” saying it keeps leaders stuck in endless conflict while citizens continue to suffer from unresolved problems.
According to Balaam, Bobi Wine joining government would send a strong message of national unity. He said it would show that Ugandans can put country before party.
The minister also noted that many opposition figures in the past have joined government and gone on to serve successfully. He said this should not be seen as weakness but maturity.
Balaam dismissed fears that Bobi Wine would be sidelined if he joined government. He claimed that if Bobi Wine officially expressed interest, he could be deployed in a top position where his skills would be fully utilized.
He added that President Museveni values competence and loyalty to national interests. According to him, anyone ready to work can find space in government.
The comments have sparked mixed reactions across the country. Supporters of the ruling party welcomed the advice, saying it shows openness and political tolerance.
However, opposition supporters strongly rejected Balaam’s remarks. Many argue that Bobi Wine represents a different vision and cannot work under the same system he criticizes.
Some political analysts say Balaam’s statement reflects the ruling party’s recognition of Bobi Wine’s influence. They argue that such remarks show the opposition leader is seen as a serious political force.
Others believe the comments are meant to weaken the opposition by encouraging its leaders to defect and join government.
As of now, Bobi Wine has not publicly responded to Balaam Barugahara’s statement. His supporters continue to insist that his struggle is about systemic change, not personal gain.
The debate has once again highlighted Uganda’s deep political divisions. Whether cooperation or continued confrontation will shape the future remains a question only time can answer.
