National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has reportedly dismissed Netherlands-based human rights activist Dr Nicholas Schoonderwoerd, also known as Dr Nico, from his role as the party’s special envoy to the European Union. The reported dismissal has sparked questions about internal disagreements within the opposition party, with Dr Nico claiming that political differences contributed to the decision.
Dr Nico, who had been representing NUP interests at the European Union, reportedly described his removal as a surprise. According to his account, Bobi Wine had gone several months without responding to his WhatsApp messages and direct telephone calls before the decision was communicated. The circumstances surrounding the dismissal have not been independently established.
The activist reportedly believes that his disagreements with the leadership of the NUP Netherlands Chapter played a major role in the developments. He specifically pointed to differences with the chapter’s leadership, which he says is headed by Naava Rebecca. However, the allegations have not been accompanied by a public response from the individuals named.
Dr Nico also accused the Netherlands chapter leaders of failing to organise more protests following Uganda’s presidential elections. He reportedly argued that demonstrations should have continued to draw international attention to alleged human rights abuses and other concerns in Uganda. His position appears to differ from that of fellow party members over how opposition activities should be organised while the political situation remains tense.
According to Dr Nico, his disagreements were not limited to discussions about demonstrations. He claimed that his political views also caused friction within the Netherlands chapter, eventually leading to his removal from its WhatsApp group. The activist reportedly sees the incident as part of a wider disagreement over the direction and activities of NUP supporters based in Europe.
The reported dismissal comes at a time when opposition figures and their supporters continue to raise concerns about political freedoms and alleged abuses in Uganda. Bobi Wine and NUP have repeatedly challenged President Yoweri Museveni’s government, while supporters abroad have used demonstrations and advocacy campaigns to draw international attention to developments in the country.
The disagreement also highlights the challenges opposition parties can face when members abroad differ over strategy, leadership and the methods used to pressure the government. While some activists may favour frequent street demonstrations, others may prefer diplomatic engagement, public campaigns or direct communication with international institutions. Such differences can create tensions over who speaks for a party and how its international representation should operate.
For now, the reasons behind Dr Nico’s reported removal remain based largely on his account, and no detailed public explanation from Bobi Wine or the NUP leadership has been provided in the information available. A response from the party and the Netherlands chapter would help clarify whether the decision was directly linked to political disagreements, protest organising or other considerations. Until then, the claims should be treated as allegations rather than established facts.
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