Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, called upon Ugandans to unite against what he termed as the authoritarian rule of the current government rather than getting caught up in divisive rhetoric based on tribal, religious, or other affiliations.
Addressing a large gathering at Ntungamo Monthly market grounds during the ongoing nationwide mobilization tour of his National Unity Platform (NUP) party, Kyagulanyi emphasized the need for solidarity among all Ugandans in the fight against what he described as dictatorship.
Kyagulanyi criticized President Museveni’s administration, accusing it of neglecting and undermining the infrastructure and systems established by previous Ugandan leaders. He highlighted disparities in access to healthcare, contrasting the past when healthcare was more inclusive compared to the current situation where hospitals segregate between rich and poor.
Asserting his belief in having won the 2021 general election despite claims of electoral fraud and subsequent arrests of opposition members, Kyagulanyi encouraged his supporters to remain steadfast in their pursuit of political change. He reiterated NUP’s commitment to inclusivity and welcomed new members seeking to reform Uganda’s governance.
Despite the political tensions, the rally in Ntungamo District proceeded peacefully, with no reported security incidents as Kyagulanyi and his team marched through the area. Notably, Ntungamo holds significance as the birthplace of President Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataaha, as well as being a stronghold for their National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Reflecting on local sentiments, several speakers at the rally expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo and criticized diversion tactics employed during elections to sway votes away from alternative candidates. Bobi Wine echoed these sentiments, pointing out persistent poverty in Ntungamo and questioning the efficacy of Museveni’s leadership in addressing local challenges.
In response to Kyagulanyi’s remarks, government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo dismissed them, stating his refusal to engage with what he termed as irrelevant statements from the opposition leader. Opondo emphasized his lack of interest in discussing Bobi Wine, citing the perceived lack of substance in his statements.
Overall, Bobi Wine’s rally in Ntungamo highlighted ongoing political tensions in Uganda, underscoring the opposition’s push for unity and reform against a backdrop of entrenched political divisions and economic challenges.
