Wakiso, Uganda — At least 29 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) were arrested on Monday, October 6, 2025, after clashing with security forces while accompanying NUP president and presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, on his campaign trail.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango, the arrests followed defiance of campaign guidelines and traffic regulations as Bobi Wine’s convoy made its way toward Mityana District for a scheduled rally.
“The group blocked the road, drummed, whistled, and caused unnecessary traffic disruptions despite repeated warnings,” Onyango said.
“About 29 suspects were apprehended and are currently detained at Wakiso Police Division.”
. @Patrickonyango1 "Today 06 October 2025, presidential candidate Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Robert planned to travel to Mityana district for his presidential rally.
— Uganda Police Force (@PoliceUg) October 6, 2025
He was expected to take the Mityana highway but chose to use Hoima Road
A joint security deployment was arranged to… pic.twitter.com/qd6QE5jJHo
Altercation on the Highway
Police said Bobi Wine had been cleared to use the Mityana Highway, but his team allegedly diverted to Hoima Road, prompting a joint security deployment to manage his movement and ensure public safety.
At Bujjuko Trading Centre, a crowd of NUP supporters gathered to cheer him on, spilling onto the road and halting traffic.
Despite repeated warnings from police and traffic officers, the supporters reportedly ignored instructions, leading to the mass arrests.
“Our role is to maintain law and order. We had arranged a safe passage for all candidates, but some of his supporters deliberately chose to disrupt movement,” Onyango explained.
Police Urge Compliance from All Candidates
Authorities have urged all presidential aspirants to follow traffic rules, use approved campaign routes, and avoid obstructing other road users during campaign activities.
“We remind all candidates that the campaign guidelines are not optional,” Onyango added.
“They are designed to ensure safety, coordination, and respect for the rights of all citizens.”
The detained supporters are being held at Wakiso Police Division, where statements are being recorded as investigations continue. Police said the suspects will be charged with unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic, and defying lawful orders.
Background: Rising Tensions on the Campaign Trail
The incident marks another flashpoint in Uganda’s increasingly tense political atmosphere as the 2026 general elections draw closer.
Bobi Wine’s campaign events have often been marred by heavy security deployments, confrontations with police, and accusations of selective enforcement of the law.
NUP officials have previously accused authorities of harassment and intimidation, arguing that security forces apply campaign restrictions unevenly between ruling party candidates and opposition contenders.
In response, police maintain that their actions are non-political, aimed solely at maintaining public order and ensuring equal treatment under campaign regulations.
Bobi Wine Yet to Comment
As of press time, Bobi Wine had not issued an official statement on the arrests.
However, his close aides described the incident as “a familiar pattern of intimidation”, claiming police were deliberately trying to frustrate his movement and suppress his supporters.
“Everywhere we go, the people come out to show love — and every time, police respond with arrests and violence,” said a senior NUP mobilizer who spoke on condition of anonymity.
“This will not stop the message of change from reaching Ugandans.”
Public Reaction and Online Outcry
News of the arrests quickly spread across social media, with #FreeNUPSupporters trending on X (formerly Twitter) by Monday evening.
Supporters posted videos from Bujjuko showing crowds cheering as Bobi Wine’s convoy passed — moments before the police crackdown.
“The people were peaceful. They were singing and dancing. Arresting them shows fear, not law enforcement,” one post read.
Another user wrote, “They are trying to break our spirit, but we shall not give up.”
Security on High Alert Ahead of 2026 Polls
With just months left until the 2026 presidential elections, Uganda’s security agencies have tightened surveillance around opposition activities, citing concerns over public order and illegal assemblies.
Analysts warn that the repeated confrontations between NUP supporters and police could heighten political tensions nationwide.
“These incidents reflect a growing trust deficit between law enforcement and opposition movements,” said a Kampala-based political commentator.
“If not handled carefully, they risk inflaming public anger and damaging the credibility of the electoral process.”
Should police crack down harder on campaign disruptions, or is this political targeting? Share your thoughts below and follow The Pop Radar (TPR) for the latest updates on Uganda’s 2026 election trail.
