KAMPALA, Uganda — Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, attracted tens of thousands of supporters to two campaign rallies in Kampala’s Lubaga Division on Monday, despite clashes with police that left several people injured and others arrested.
Wine, the National Unity Platform presidential candidate challenging President Yoweri Museveni in the January 2026 elections, began the day with a courtesy visit to Charles Peter Mayiga, the prime minister of the Buganda Kingdom, at the kingdom’s headquarters in Mengo.
The first rally at Wankulukuku Stadium in Lubaga South saw supporters fill the venue and spill into surrounding areas. Wine appeared in a bulletproof vest and helmet, citing government threats.
As Wine’s motorcade traveled to the second rally at Namungoona Playground in Lubaga North, police clashed with roadside supporters. Video and photos shared by the party showed officers using batons, whips and water cannons, flooding markets and injuring bystanders.
Wine condemned the actions in posts on X, asking, “What crime did these people commit? To stand on the roadside and wave at us?”
National Unity Platform officials reported several supporters bruised and multiple arrests. Police have not immediately commented on the incidents, but have previously announced probes into similar clashes during the campaign.
Despite the violence, large crowds gathered at the Namungoona rally, where Wine urged a “protest vote” against Museveni’s long rule.
The events underscore ongoing tensions in the opposition’s nationwide tour, with rights groups and international observers highlighting restrictions on assembly ahead of the vote. Wine, a former musician turned politician, has positioned his campaign as a push for generational change and democratic reforms.
