The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has firmly dismissed allegations from National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, claiming that security agencies are plotting his arrest ahead of the upcoming elections.
In a statement via his X account, acting UPDF spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi described the claims as “empty talk” and a potential “smokescreen,” questioning the motives behind them.
“The interagency security services can categorically state that there are no such plans whatsoever to arrest Mr. Kyagulanyi at this point—unless, of course, he offends the law,” Magezi wrote.
He added that security forces are “watching closely” and prepared to act if necessary, emphasizing vigilance without confirming any immediate threats.
The UPDF’s response came directly after Bobi Wine’s post on X, where he alleged a detailed regime plot to detain him and incite violence.
In his urgent message, Bobi Wine stated: “I’ve learnt from security circles of a plot by the desperate regime to have me arrested before polling day in order to create a pre-emptive massacre akin to what they did in November 2020,
“That way, they will be able to carry out massive arrests and abductions and get justification to deploy the military in every spot. Among other plans, is for that brutal police officer called Bravo to provoke a confrontation in Mbale City or the neighbouring districts so that they get the justification. The other plan is to deploy goons, dress them in our Party colors, and project us as violent.”
Echoing the UPDF’s stance, the Uganda Police Force (UPF) issued its own rebuttal on X, categorically dismissing the allegations as “unfounded and provocative.”
“The Uganda Police Force categorically dismisses allegations of a scheme to detain candidate Kyagulanyi Sentamu or engineer incidents before election day. These assertions are unfounded and provocative,” the statement reads in part.
“UPF provides security for the NUP candidate throughout his campaign activities, ensuring his safety. Our effort is geared to facilitate tranquil elections and call on every political actor to promote non-violence. All apprehensions occur strictly in line with legal guidelines, with detainees processed in full compliance with the law.”
Police emphasized their role in protecting Bobi Wine during campaigns and urged all parties to avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
This exchange unfolds amid heightened tensions as Uganda approaches polling day, with both sides accusing the other of escalating divisions.
While Bobi Wine’s claims draw on past incidents of alleged state violence, security officials maintain that their actions are lawful and reactive only to breaches.
