Bobi Wine Raises Alarm After Supporter Dies Amid Uganda Campaign Crackdown

Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has renewed his criticism of the country’s security forces following the death of one of his supporters, Edward Mukwaya, whom he claims was targeted during the ongoing political mobilisation period.

In a statement shared on social media on Sunday, December 28, 2025, the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader linked Mukwaya’s death to what he described as a sustained crackdown on individuals associated with his political activities. 

The incident has once again drawn attention to long-standing accusations by the opposition that police and military officers use excessive force during campaigns.

Bobi Wine said Mukwaya’s death was not an isolated case but part of a wider pattern of violence that has accompanied his political engagements across the country. 

He argued that supporters continue to face intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and violence simply for participating in opposition activities.

“Edward Mukwaya joins the many Ugandans who have lost their lives since our campaigns began,” Bobi Wine said, adding that political participation should not come at the cost of life or safety.

The opposition leader accused elements within the security agencies of operating with impunity, claiming that a lack of accountability has emboldened officers to act outside the law. 

He further alleged that those responsible for abuses are protected by the political system, leaving victims and their families without justice.

According to Bobi Wine, such actions have created a climate of fear among ordinary citizens, particularly young people who form the backbone of his political movement. 

He warned that continued violence risks undermining Uganda’s democratic process and discouraging public participation in governance.

Despite the strong tone of his remarks, Bobi Wine maintained that accountability remains possible, even if delayed. 

He said many Ugandans continue to believe that justice will eventually be served for those who have suffered during political confrontations.

“We remain hopeful that one day there will be accountability for every crime committed against innocent citizens,” he said.

The statement concluded with a tribute to Mukwaya, whom Bobi Wine described as a committed supporter who believed in peaceful political change. 

He expressed condolences to the family and vowed that his movement would continue pushing for reforms through non-violent means.

The Ugandan government and security agencies have in the past rejected accusations of targeting opposition supporters, insisting that officers act within the law to maintain public order. 

Authorities have previously argued that restrictions on opposition activities are necessary to prevent violence and protect public safety.

However, human rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about the conduct of security forces during political gatherings, citing reports of unlawful arrests, use of excessive force, and harassment of opposition figures.