Opposition leader and National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Ssentamu Kyangulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, has appealed to Uganda’s security forces ahead of the 2026 presidential election. Speaking to supporters in Serere Town Council, he promised reforms to reward police and military personnel instead of punishing them for previously enforcing orders against him. His remarks reflect a commitment to reform within Uganda’s security sector.
Bobi Wine’s Promise to Security Forces
Bobi Wine addressed security personnel directly, urging them to vote for him in the upcoming election. He pledged that, if elected, he would ensure reforms within the security forces, emphasizing rewards for officers rather than punishment. This approach marks a significant departure from the current system, where security forces are often criticized for heavy-handed tactics during elections.
He promised better salaries for officers, telling them, “I will not hold what you have done against me.” He added that officers enforcing actions against him were simply following “bad orders from their commanders.” Bobi Wine’s proposal offers a vision of promoting officers while removing those in leadership positions who have caused harm.
Security Forces and Campaign Intimidation
Bobi Wine’s campaign has faced challenges, including accusations of intimidation by security forces. Police and military personnel have often been criticized for their heavy-handed tactics during his past campaigns. Bobi Wine appealed to officers’ sense of family and livelihood, urging them to think about their futures when casting their votes.
He also called on the youth to spread his message despite ongoing intimidation. Bobi Wine urged young people to share his vision with those who have been too scared to speak out. He encouraged them to use their own language to rally others, reinforcing that his mission was not just for him but for the entire generation.
Criticism of Museveni’s Leadership
As Bobi Wine continues his campaign, he has been vocal in his criticism of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s 40-year rule. He described the country’s development as stagnant, with the roads, police stations, and uniforms showing signs of neglect. He argued that, under Museveni, Uganda has not seen any meaningful progress for decades.
Bobi Wine contrasted Uganda’s current state with that of India and China, countries that have prioritized development despite ethnic divisions. He emphasized the need for Ugandans to unite for national development, as opposed to being divided by tribalism, which, he claimed, has been used to maintain the status quo under Museveni’s rule.
Bobi Wine’s Vision for Uganda’s Future
Bobi Wine outlined a bold vision for Uganda’s future. He promised to improve infrastructure, refurbish schools and hospitals, and ensure that taxes benefit the younger generation. “They should unite and vote for what they believe in,” he said, calling the upcoming election a crucial moment for the country.
He also warned that this could be the last election under Museveni’s leadership, citing the president’s age and declining ability to campaign across the country. Bobi Wine urged Ugandans to seize the opportunity and vote for change in 2026.
