The National Unity Platform (NUP) altered its schedule in Kabale District, South Western Uganda, on Thursday after receiving information from European diplomats indicating a potential threat to the life of its leader, Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.
On Thursday evening, NUP issued a statement stating, “This morning, we received credible intelligence from European Diplomatic Sources regarding a planned attempt on the life of President KYAGULANYI Ssentamu Robert, aka @HEBobiwine, and other NUP leaders during the planned NUP mobilization events in Kabale District.” As a result, the party made strategic adjustments to its day’s program, concluding its events earlier than originally planned.
One of the planned events was a rally at Kabale stadium.
NUP did not provide specific details about the briefing from the European diplomats, nor did they reveal the identities of these diplomats who had informed them of the threats to Kyagulanyi’s life. The party stated its intention to release a more comprehensive statement in the future.
The party’s statement generated mixed reactions from the public. Thomas Obita commented on Twitter, “You need assistance in handling your public relations and international relations if you want to be taken seriously.” Shan Nagawa suggested that Kyagulanyi was influenced by a previous incident, stating, “After this embarrassment in Kasese, just say you feared another one in Kabale.” Kateregga Jjuuko expressed determination, stating, “Aluta continua. No intimidation will stop us from exercising our divine human rights.”
Bobi Wine has been traveling to various parts of the country to establish party offices as part of his nationwide mobilization campaign. This week, he began his campaign with visits to Mbarara, Fort Portal, Kasese, and Kabale District at around 12:30 PM today. During these visits, Kyagulanyi and his team received enthusiastic support from crowds lining the streets, despite a visible police presence. Notable figures accompanying Kyagulanyi included Mityana Member of Parliament Zaake Francis, Party Spokesperson Joel Senyonyi, and Party Secretary-General David Lewis Rubongoya, among others.