Security Agencies Dismiss Kyagulanyi Arrest Claims Ahead of Polling Day

Uganda’s security agencies have dismissed claims by National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, that there is a plot to arrest him before polling day and provoke violence.

In a statement shared publicly, Kyagulanyi alleged that security agencies were planning his arrest to justify a heavy military deployment and mass arrests, similar to the unrest witnessed in November 2020. He claimed that certain police officers would provoke confrontations in Mbale City and nearby districts, while goons would allegedly be dressed in NUP colours to portray the party as violent.

“We urge our people to remain peaceful and non-violent but very assertive,” Kyagulanyi said, warning supporters to be cautious.

However, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force (UPF) have strongly rejected the allegations, describing them as baseless and misleading.

UPDF Deputy Spokesperson Col Chris Magezi said the claims were a distraction and questioned the motive behind them.

“This is certainly a smoke screen. What is NUP and their leader planning by coming up with this type of empty talk? The timing?” Col Magezi said.

He added, “The inter-agency security services can categorically state that there are no such plans whatsoever to arrest Mr Kyagulanyi at this point, unless he offends the law of course.”

The Uganda Police Force also issued a firm denial, saying there is no scheme to detain the NUP leader or engineer violence ahead of the elections.

“The Uganda Police Force categorically dismisses allegations of a scheme to detain candidate Kyagulanyi Sentamu or engineer incidents before election day. These assertions are unfounded and provocative,” police said in a statement.

Police further emphasized that they are providing security to Kyagulanyi throughout his campaign activities.

“UPF provides security for the NUP candidate throughout his campaign activities, ensuring his safety,” the statement read.

Security agencies said their priority is to ensure calm and peaceful elections and urged all political actors to avoid inflammatory statements.

“Our effort is geared to facilitate tranquil elections and we call on every political actor to promote non-violence,” police said.

Authorities maintained that any arrests, if they occur, would be carried out strictly within the law.

“All apprehensions occur strictly in line with legal guidelines, with detainees processed in full compliance with the law,” the police added.

As the country heads closer to polling day, security agencies say they remain focused on maintaining law and order, while calling on political leaders and supporters to act responsibly.