Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has confirmed that he has travelled outside Uganda after remaining in hiding for more than two months following the controversial January 15 presidential election.
Kyagulanyi revealed his departure in a video posted on his official social media pages on Saturday, explaining that he had temporarily relocated to engage with international allies and members of the Ugandan diaspora.
In the message, the National Unity Platform (NUP) president thanked supporters who secretly assisted him while he was avoiding security forces.
“I want to appreciate all Ugandans who protected and concealed me when the regime was looking for me,” he said. “Some of you provided food, others offered clothing and shelter. I cannot mention your names, but may God reward you.”
Kyagulanyi noted that the trip will involve a series of meetings abroad aimed at mobilising international attention toward Uganda’s political situation.
“Over the next few weeks, I will meet our friends and partners across the world before returning to continue our struggle for democracy,” he said.
The opposition figure also accused security forces of intensifying operations across the country in an attempt to locate him. According to him, roadblocks were erected in several locations and motorists were subjected to inspections.
He claimed that security operatives recently raided the home of his aide Don Shariff Najja and allegedly abducted Najja’s wife when they failed to find him.
Kyagulanyi further criticised government authorities for arresting and dismissing nine police officers who had been assigned to his security detail during the campaign period.
The officers, he said, were punished because they allegedly refused to assist authorities in monitoring his movements after their official duty had ended.
Kyagulanyi announced that during his absence, NUP Deputy President Dr. Alina Zedriga will take charge of the party’s leadership.
In recent weeks, residents in several parts of the Kampala Metropolitan Area reported increased security checks, which fueled speculation that authorities were searching for the opposition leader.
However, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi denied the claims, stating that the operations were routine measures aimed at enforcing traffic discipline.
