By Micah Jonah
March 15, 2026
Ugandan opposition leader, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has temporarily left Uganda following a disputed presidential election in January that kept longtime President Yoweri Museveni in power. Wine, who had been in hiding for two months, accused the government of election fraud, said security forces had blocked his rallies, arrested his supporters.
In a video message posted on X on Saturday, Wine said he departed the country for “critical engagements outside Uganda” but did not disclose the location or details. He assured his supporters that he would return at the right time to continue his push for freedom and democracy.
Uganda’s military, led by Museveni’s son Muhoozi Kainerugaba, stated on social media that it was searching for Wine, though no charges or alleged crimes were specified. Wine criticized Museveni for “usurping the will of the people”, vowed to engage international allies during his time abroad.
President Museveni, 81, has been in power since 1986. His elections have repeatedly been challenged by opposition groups and rights organizations for alleged intimidation and violence, accusations the government denies.
Bobi Wine remains a key figure in Uganda’s political opposition, with his departure raising concerns over escalating political tensions and potential international engagement in the country’s electoral dispute.
