Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has addressed Ugandans regarding his recent departure from Uganda.
In a statement shared on social media, he stressed that leaving the country should not be interpreted as surrender or defeat, but rather as part of a broader political strategy aimed at advancing democratic reforms in Uganda.
Bobi Wine explained that the decision to temporarily go abroad followed weeks of intense pressure from security forces, which he says had been searching for him relentlessly.
He emphasized that his departure was motivated by safety concerns and the need to continue his political work effectively.
According to Kyagulanyi, the government’s campaign against him included raids on his home, surveillance, and threats to his family.
He claimed that these actions created an environment where remaining in Uganda could have jeopardized his life and his ability to organize political activities.
Despite leaving the country, Bobi Wine reassured his supporters that his absence does not weaken the opposition movement.
He called on Ugandans to remain vigilant, continue engaging in civic activism, and support efforts to push for accountable governance.
He outlined that his time abroad would be used to engage the international community, raising awareness about human rights abuses, election irregularities, and the political climate in Uganda.
According to him, international attention could help bring pressure on the government to respect democratic processes.
Bobi Wine also revealed that he plans to coordinate with Ugandans in the diaspora to strengthen opposition networks and organize political action.
He believes that being abroad offers a strategic advantage to mobilize resources and amplify the voices of Ugandans seeking change.
The opposition leader stated that his deputy, Dr. Lina Zedriga, recently released from prison, would act as NUP president in his absence. He emphasized that the party remains organized and committed to its goals despite his temporary relocation.
Kyagulanyi highlighted that his exit from Uganda is temporary and that he intends to return once his international engagements and strategic planning are complete. He underscored that he has committed no crime by running for president and that his work is rooted in promoting democracy.
He also recounted the challenges he faced in the months leading up to his departure. Security forces allegedly raided his home, harassed family members, and targeted individuals close to him in a bid to limit his political activities. These experiences, he said, reinforced his belief in the importance of international advocacy.
Bobi Wine described the efforts by the government to track him down as wasteful, stating that billions of taxpayer shillings were spent without achieving their objective. He lauded ordinary citizens for protecting him and assisting him in evading capture, highlighting the widespread public support for his cause.
He further explained that the security operation included roadblocks, vehicle checks, and home raids, all of which were intended to intimidate him and his supporters. Despite this, he remained unharmed and continued to organize politically, albeit from hiding before ultimately leaving the country.
Bobi Wine stressed that his absence is a strategic move to ensure the opposition can continue organizing without constant interference from security forces. He argued that remaining in Uganda under such pressure could have limited his effectiveness and endangered his family.
He also emphasized the importance of international engagement in promoting democracy. By bringing Uganda’s political situation to the attention of foreign governments, human rights organizations, and international media, he aims to secure support for political reforms.
Kyagulanyi urged Ugandans to remain committed to civic participation. He stated that the fight for democracy requires persistence, resilience, and cooperation, whether from inside the country or abroad. He encouraged citizens to stay informed and engaged despite challenges.
He reiterated that NUP’s leadership is intact and functioning. The deputy president, Dr. Zedriga, will ensure continuity in decision-making, policy implementation, and strategic planning while he is overseas.
Bobi Wine also shared his intention to expose systemic issues affecting Uganda’s governance. He plans to document alleged electoral fraud, human rights violations, and the use of state resources for political suppression, with the goal of creating international awareness and pressure.
He underscored that his strategy is not about fleeing responsibility but about expanding the movement’s reach. By operating internationally, he hopes to leverage global platforms to support the push for free and fair elections, accountability, and respect for fundamental rights.
Kyagulanyi urged NUP supporters to remain united and continue mobilizing at the grassroots level. He emphasized that the party’s strength comes from its membership and their commitment to democratic ideals, which can withstand temporary leadership absence.
He concluded by assuring Ugandans that his work abroad is a continuation of his struggle for political change.
Bobi Wine expressed confidence that once the strategy is executed, he will return stronger, with renewed plans to challenge restrictions on political freedoms.
In summary, Bobi Wine’s message conveyed that leaving Uganda does not signal retreat. Rather, it is a deliberate move to advance a larger political agenda, safeguard his life, coordinate international advocacy, and maintain momentum for democratic reforms within the country.
His statements underline the tensions between the ruling government and opposition forces, while also highlighting the role of citizen support in sustaining political movements.
The opposition leader’s departure is framed not as surrender but as a tactical step in a long-term plan to strengthen the call for accountable governance in Uganda.
