Opposition leader Bobi Wine has claimed that security forces led by the son of President Yoweri Museveni searched for him across the country but failed to locate him because ordinary Ugandans protected and sheltered him.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) president made the remarks while addressing supporters about the events that followed the recent presidential elections.
Speaking about the tense period after the polls, Bobi Wine said he was forced to go into hiding after security agencies allegedly began searching for him.
According to him, the operations were widespread and involved raids on several homes and roadblocks across different parts of the country.
Bobi Wine alleged that the search for him was led by Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Museveni and a senior military officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
He claimed that security teams were deployed across the country with the aim of locating and arresting him shortly after the election results were announced.
According to the opposition leader, the operation involved intelligence teams, soldiers, and police officers who were reportedly instructed to track his movements. He said the security agencies monitored several locations they believed he could be hiding in.
Despite the extensive search, Bobi Wine said the efforts were unsuccessful because ordinary citizens protected him during the time he remained in hiding. He credited Ugandans for showing courage and solidarity during what he described as a difficult moment.
“Well, they couldn’t find me because the people of Uganda sheltered me and protected me,” he said while narrating how he managed to evade the search operation.
Bobi Wine said many citizens opened their homes and provided safe spaces to ensure he remained out of reach of security forces. According to him, this support demonstrated the strong bond between the opposition movement and ordinary Ugandans.
He further explained that the experience strengthened his belief that many Ugandans desire political change. In his view, the willingness of citizens to protect him reflected their determination to defend what they believe is their democratic right.
The opposition leader also described the period as one filled with tension and uncertainty. He said security forces allegedly conducted several searches in different areas and questioned individuals believed to be associated with him.
According to Bobi Wine, some of his colleagues and supporters were also targeted during the operations. He claimed that security agencies raided homes belonging to members of the opposition in an attempt to gather information about his whereabouts.
While recounting the events, Bobi Wine maintained that he remained focused on his political mission despite the pressure. He said the situation did not weaken his resolve to continue advocating for democracy and political reforms in Uganda.
The NUP leader said he eventually decided to temporarily leave the country in order to engage international partners about the political developments in Uganda. He explained that his travel would allow him to raise awareness about what he described as challenges facing democracy in the country.
According to him, the move was not an act of retreat but rather a strategic step to build support for the opposition’s cause. He reassured supporters that he intends to return and continue political activities in Uganda.
Bobi Wine also urged his followers to remain peaceful and united as the political process continues. He emphasized that the struggle for political change should remain focused on non-violent means.
Meanwhile, the government and security agencies have previously maintained that their actions after elections are aimed at maintaining law and order across the country. Authorities often state that security operations are conducted to prevent violence and instability.
The political climate in Uganda has often become tense following national elections, with both government officials and opposition leaders making strong statements about the electoral process. Such moments frequently attract attention from regional and international observers.
For his supporters, Bobi Wine’s story about being protected by citizens has become a symbol of loyalty and resistance within the opposition movement. Many believe it reflects the level of grassroots support he has built over the years.
At the same time, analysts say the statements highlight the deep political divisions that continue to shape Uganda’s political landscape. The debate over election results and political freedoms remains a major issue in national discussions.
Despite the tensions, Bobi Wine insists that he remains committed to his political goals. He says his movement will continue advocating for what it believes is a more democratic and inclusive political system.
As the situation continues to unfold, many Ugandans are watching closely to see how the political conversation develops in the months ahead.
Both government leaders and opposition figures are expected to continue engaging supporters as the country navigates its political future.
