Injured Bobi Wine Makes Surprising Visit to Remanded Party Members

(Kampala) – Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, provided a status report on comrades Archileo Kivumbi, Magala Umar, and Bobi Young, who are currently on remand at Luzira Maximum Security Prison. These individuals face charges related to their support for Kyagulanyi’s political movement.

In the latest update shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Bobi Wine expressed his solidarity with the detained activists, urging them to remain resilient. He reassured them of his unwavering commitment to their cause, stressing that his fight for their freedom would persist as long as he enjoys his own liberty.

The head of NUP was discharged from St. Francis Hospital, Nsambya last week. Kyagulanyi, who had been admitted following an what his supporters called an assassination attempt in Bulindo, Kiira, opted for early discharge after growing concerns over his safety and the excessive security presence around the hospital.

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Kyagulanyi, who appeared frail and supported himself on crutches, had reportedly been shot in the leg by a police officer during the incident despite police statements that he had been “injured by stumbling”. The officer, identified as Twesigye Kaino Elias, is known to be associated with the ruling party and had previously run for political office under the NRM ticket.

In his statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) and on the NUP website, Kyagulanyi detailed the ordeal. He criticized the regime for sending security operatives to the hospital, who reportedly harassed medical staff and attempted to access his treatment room. The President also highlighted that roadblocks set up around the hospital were obstructing emergency services and putting more lives at risk.

Counsel George Musisi, who had been hosting Kyagulanyi before the attack, confirmed that a teargas canister was aimed at the President, resulting in his leg injury. Meanwhile, Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Parliamentary Front, addressed the foreign press, describing the situation and confirming the President’s transfer to his residence in Magere. He noted that hospital staff had refused to comply with demands for Kyagulanyi’s medical records from unidentified operatives in civilian clothing.

According to the opposition party website, this latest attempt is part of a troubling pattern of violence against Kyagulanyi. Previous incidents include:

1. 13 Aug 2018 - Co-driver shot dead in Arua after taking Bobi’s seat
2. 1 Dec 2020 - Car sprayed with bullets while Bobi was inside in Jinja
3. 1 Dec 2020 - Stun grenade explosion in Kayunga
4. 3 Sept 2024 - Shooting incident in Bulindo

Despite these ongoing threats, Kyagulanyi said he remains committed to his cause and has vowed to continue fighting for his and others’ freedoms.