LUUKA, Uganda — National Unity Platform presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi is scheduled to campaign today in Luuka and Kaliro districts, with the visit to Luuka marking a poignant return to the site of his controversial 2020 arrest.
Kyagulanyi, known by his stage name Bobi Wine, is expected to address supporters at the Luuka District Headquarters, the same location where he was detained on Nov. 18, 2020, on charges of violating COVID-19 campaign restrictions.
That arrest and the subsequent government crackdown sparked two days of nationwide protests in which government figures reported at least 54 people were killed.
The incident significantly boosted Kyagulanyi’s political profile in the district, where he later defeated President Yoweri Museveni in the election—a rare opposition feat.
Today’s rallies follow Kyagulanyi’s pledge made Tuesday in Kamuli District to introduce a compulsory school feeding program in all government-aided schools if he wins the presidency.
During the Namwendwa Town Council rally, Kyagulanyi argued that hunger is a primary driver of school dropouts and vulnerability, particularly for girls. His proposed program includes providing porridge and an egg at break time and a meal in the afternoon, which he says will boost academic performance and curb sexual exploitation.
Kyagulanyi is expected to leverage his history in Luuka during today’s events, focusing on his message of democratic change and the need to restore dignity to the country’s youth.
After Luuka, he will proceed to Kaliro District to conclude his campaigning for the day.
