Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, expressed deep concern over the state of the country in the wake of a recent shooting incident targeting Pastor Aloysius Bugingo, a prominent Pentecostal church minister in Uganda.
Reacting to the fatal shooting, Bobi Wine lamented that some religious figures in Uganda now feel safer with guns and soldiers than relying on the presence of God.
Bobi Wine voiced his disapproval of the situation, stating, “Our country is so messed up that some ‘men and women of God’ feel safer with soldiers and guns other than the presence of God.” The shooting incident, which claimed the life of Bugingo’s driver bodyguard from the presidential guard, has left more questions than answers circulating on social media.
As conspiracy theories proliferate regarding the architects of the attack, Bobi Wine decried the prevalence of urban crime and the use of deadly force in Uganda. He criticized religious leaders who, instead of seeking solace in their faith, resort to appeasing those in power and aligning themselves with soldiers for protection.
Amidst calls from pastors in central Uganda for heightened security in the face of potential attacks, Bobi Wine emphasized the need to speak out against crimes in a lawless country. He urged citizens not to wait for such incidents to occur before raising their voices in protest against the deteriorating state of safety.
Despite the apparent animosity between Bobi Wine and Pastor Bugingo, who is known for his controversial support of President Museveni, the opposition leader extended sympathies and called for prayers. Bobi Wine suggested that the incident could serve as an opportunity for Bugingo to gain insight into the realities of the country and the ongoing struggle for positive change.
In a message directed at Bugingo, Bobi Wine encouraged the clergyman to use his life to glorify God rather than men and to resist hatred towards others. Reflecting on the broader issues in the country, Bobi Wine noted the tendency of regime apologists to dismiss concerns about governance, gun control, and crime investigation as mere political maneuvers until they become victims themselves.
Amidst public outrage, including criticism from Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, President Museveni’s powerful first son, the police pledged to expedite the investigation into the presumed assault. CCTV footage is being reviewed to determine whether Bugingo was trailed before the attack. However, President Museveni, in his 2023 end-of-year national address, maintained that Uganda was safe enough, contrasting with the unsettling events that have unfolded.
