Kyagulanyi Asks Police, Army to Vote Him for Better Welfare

Speaking during a campaign rally in Serere Town, Kyagulanyi emphasized the importance of support from the security forces. The rally was marked by a heavy deployment of police, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and other security agencies, which he said were intended to block his entry. He thanked residents for turning up despite the restrictions.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi—popularly known as Bobi Wine—has appealed to members of the police and the army to support his bid in the upcoming elections, saying their votes are key to ushering in a new era of improved infrastructure and better remuneration for security personnel.

Speaking during a campaign rally in Serere Town, Kyagulanyi emphasized the importance of support from the security forces. The rally was marked by a heavy deployment of police, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and other security agencies, which he said were intended to block his entry. He thanked residents for turning up despite the restrictions.

“I am very happy to be here with you today. I thank you for being strong and brave to receive us here amidst all the security blockages,” Kyagulanyi said. He criticized President Yoweri Museveni’s four-decade rule, citing deteriorating conditions within the police force and other public services.

“Look at the condition of police stations, how officers are treated, and the dilapidated units where they live. This is unacceptable,” he said. Kyagulanyi further noted that many police officers struggle to educate their children, underscoring the need for urgent reforms in welfare and service delivery.

Kyagulanyi pledged to prioritize improved salaries for both the military and police if elected.

“I urge police officers to vote for me and encourage your families to do the same. A new Uganda means better pay for the men and women who protect us,” he said.

Despite what he described as hostility from security agencies during his campaigns, Kyagulanyi said he harbours no resentment toward individual officers.

“Even when the police beat me during campaigns, I do not blame them. They are not bad people; they are following bad orders. In the new Uganda, we shall promote you,” he added.

Kyagulanyi also called on the people of Serere to join in reclaiming their dignity, arguing that poor service delivery has persisted for decades.

“For 40 years, we have endured lies and poor services. Ugandans, including the people of Teso, are suffering,” he said.

He lamented the decline of the Teso sub-region, noting that it was once prosperous, with agriculture—especially cotton—serving as a major source of income.

“Fifty years ago, Teso was thriving, with aircraft flying across its skies and cotton as a key economic driver. Today, that prosperity has been destroyed through neglect,” he said.

Kyagulanyi urged Ugandans to reject ethnic divisions, which he said have been exploited by the ruling government to maintain power.

“Museveni has survived for 40 years by dividing us. He tells the people of Teso not to trust me because I am a Muganda, yet our suffering cuts across tribes. Together, we can build a better future,” he said.

He described the election as a decisive moment for change, urging voters to choose what he termed a “new Uganda” over the status quo.

“After 40 years of dictatorship, it is time for a new beginning. We need a leader who fights for you, understands your problems, and serves you—not one who bosses you,” Kyagulanyi told supporters.

Reflecting on the challenges he faced reaching Serere, he said security forces attempted to block him because of his message.

“When I was coming here, the police and military tried to stop me because they knew I speak the truth. It is time for us to open our eyes and demand better,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sandra Iculet, the NUP candidate for the Serere District Woman Member of Parliament seat, urged residents not to be intimidated and to vote wisely.

“This is the time to choose leaders who will truly serve the people of Serere. This district was once among the best in service delivery, but today it ranks among the worst,” she said.

Following his Serere rally, Kyagulanyi was expected to proceed to Soroti City for his final campaign event of the day at Nakatunya Primary School, as he continues to canvass for votes ahead of the elections.