Dozens of supporters of Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, aka Bobi Wine, were detained at Mbarara Central Police Station on November 7, 2025.
Bobi Wine’s convoy was intercepted by police as he travelled to a scheduled rally. Video footage circulating online showed detainees handcuffed and crowded in police cells, raising accusations of political intimidation.
Police stated the arrests targeted “individuals with criminal records who allegedly assaulted officers and destroyed government property,” citing acts of provocation and public disorder during the campaign.
The opposition rejected this narrative, describing the arrests as a deliberate attempt to stifle Bobi Wine’s campaign. The NUP leader accused the government of using familiar tactics of repression and tribalism to divide citizens.
“The most important message I am preaching across the country is unity,” Bobi Wine said, framing his campaign as a call for national cohesion.
Reactions on social media have been mixed. Some users criticised the police for harsh treatment, questioning why handcuffs were used on detainees already in custody. Others supported police actions, echoing official claims that the arrests involved individuals who disrupted public order.
Analysts note that the Mbarara incident reflects Uganda’s tense political climate as the 2026 elections approach. Reports indicate increasing authoritarian measures, with frequent obstruction of opposition rallies and arrests of supporters.
International observers have highlighted concerns over Uganda’s democratic governance, noting strained relations with countries like the United States over human rights issues.
With over a year to go before the election, these confrontations suggest that the campaign period is likely to remain turbulent. Both the NUP and police have vowed to continue their respective activities, leaving the political space in Uganda under significant strain.
