National Unity Platform-NUP party president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, commonly known as Bobi Wine, has declared his intent to carry on with his countrywide tours despite the Uganda Police Force’s ban. Kyagulanyi expressed his stance during a press conference at his offices in Kampala on Thursday, stating that the police orders are not legally binding.
On Wednesday, the police, through Deputy Inspector General Tumusiime Katsigazi, issued a statement prohibiting NUP’s tours, alleging a deviation from the previously agreed-upon terms. Kyagulanyi argued that the police lack the authority to grant or deny permission for public gatherings.
He clarified that their communications with the police were notifications of their activities, as mandated by law, and not requests for permission, as stated by Katsigazi. He emphasized their unwillingness to adhere to orders lacking a legal basis.
Kyagulanyi expressed concern that Katsigazi’s statement appeared more aligned with the views of a member of the NRM party rather than a neutral police force involved in political matters.
Katsigazi’s statement cited Kyagulanyi’s alleged attacks on President Museveni and threats to overthrow the elected government during his address in Luweero district as reasons for the ban. Kyagulanyi called for a fair legal process rather than the police acting as both accuser and judge. The police also alluded to potential threats to Kyagulanyi’s life and that of his supporters due to recent bomb scares, but Kyagulanyi pointed to Museveni’s security forces as the potential culprits.
Kyagulanyi maintained that, despite past disagreements with security forces, they were not a violent group and wouldn’t halt their activities out of fear. He dismissed accusations of violence and road obstruction as negative propaganda aimed at justifying the ban.
He also reaffirmed their goal of removing the Museveni government, asserting its illegitimacy. Kyagulanyi embarked on a national tour, visiting several places, including Mayuge, Busia, Mbale, Mbarara, Kasese, Kabale, Arua, and Luweero, drawing large crowds. He announced plans to resume the tour’s second leg in three weeks, with specific locations yet to be disclosed.
