The Minister of Internal Affairs, Kahinda Otafiire, has defended opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, over the opening of regional offices for the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Otafiire clarified that no law prevents a registered political party from establishing offices across the country. He emphasized that Kyagulanyi, holding a valid license from the Electoral Commission, has the full legal right to expand his party.
The remarks follow the recent inauguration of NUP’s western regional office in Mbarara City, coming shortly after the opening of the eastern regional headquarters in Iganga District in August. The Iganga office was completed quietly to avoid political interference, with land acquisition, construction, and branding finalized just hours before the commissioning ceremony.
Otafiire urged the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to stop criticizing NUP’s expansion, noting that if the party is struggling to operate effectively, it should focus on strengthening its own presence instead of targeting Kyagulanyi.
The minister stressed that as a licensed political party leader, Bobi Wine has every right to operate and establish offices throughout Uganda.
The creation of regional offices forms part of NUP’s broader strategy to enhance grassroots mobilization. By opening offices across regions, the party aims to improve organizational reach, coordinate activities, and engage local communities more effectively.
Political analysts note that regional offices allow parties to maintain a stronger presence outside the capital, respond promptly to local issues, and stay connected with supporters.
Otafiire’s backing underscores the political and legal rights of registered parties to expand and organize freely, provided they comply with the law.
With the 2026 elections approaching, NUP’s regional offices are expected to play a crucial role in mobilizing supporters, while Otafiire’s support may help protect the party from political attacks questioning the legality of its expansion efforts.
