The National Unity Platform (NUP), led by Bobi Wine, reaffirmed its political dominance in Masaka, a significant opposition stronghold, despite earlier regime propaganda suggesting a low turnout. On Friday, NUP held its second approved rally after Mukono, but the day began on a tragic note with some party members involved in a fatal motor accident around Nsangi township. The accident claimed at least three lives, and the journey to Masaka was fraught with obstacles.
Despite numerous challenges and security barricades, a determined group of party leaders, elected officials, entertainers, and supporters managed to reach the Masaka recreation grounds. As they approached the venue around 3 PM, security forces greeted them with teargas and sound bombs, forcing the group to take alternative, difficult routes. Despite these efforts to demoralize the attendees, the people showed remarkable resilience, and the grounds were filled to capacity by 5:30 PM.
Deputy spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro vowed to stay the course and urged the oppressed people to remain steadfast. Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya praised the warm reception in Masaka, humorously noting that Masaka had set a new record, surpassing Mukono’s turnout. He encouraged attendees to participate in the ongoing registration exercise to obtain membership cards.
Party spokesperson and parliamentary leader Joel Ssenyonyi thanked the people of Buddu for their massive turnout, despite attempts to disrupt their journey. He criticized the government for corruption and reiterated NUP’s commitment to fighting against it. Ssenyonyi condemned the police for their repeated attempts to disperse the crowds with teargas and called on the police to stop their harassment, promising better pay for police officers under a new government.
NUP MPs, leaders, and artists addressed the crowd, with Comrade Kanyike Evans assuring the President that the people of Masaka are discerning and supportive of the NUP’s goals. Deputy Presidents Jolly Mugisha and Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru introduced Bobi Wine, who energized the crowd with the popular song “Nalumansi” before delivering his speech.
Bobi Wine thanked the people of Buddu for their warm welcome and overwhelming support against the regime. He vowed not to make the mistake of endorsing leaders who go against the people’s will and party values. Wine condemned police brutality and double standards, criticizing the selective allowance of processions for other parties while frustrating NUP’s activities.
He also remembered fallen comrades like Benedicto Kiwanuka and Frank Ssenteza, acknowledging their sacrifices for the cause. He attributed the mysterious machete attacks in Masaka to the regime’s tactics to instill fear and refuted claims of internal conflicts within the party. Wine emphasized the need for unity in fighting corruption and urged all Ugandans to join in the struggle for liberation.
The rally ended at 7 PM, and the NUP team began their journey back to Kampala. However, as anticipated, the police issued a statement banning NUP’s activities, citing the tragic accident as a reason to end their mobilization tour. Despite this, NUP insists that the tour will continue as planned, with the next rally scheduled for June 4th in Mityana.
