President Yoweri Museveni and opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) are officially set to be nominated for the 2026 presidential election on 23-24 September 2025, the Electoral Commission confirmed.
As the nation counts down to that day, Bobi Wine has issued a striking warning to his supporters, urging those who fear arrest to stay away from the “struggle” altogether. Speaking at NUP headquarters in Makerere-Kavule, he claimed that the ruling party is planning mass arrests, even on his nomination day and during his anticipated rally in Katwe.
“If you fear prison, please leave the struggle. I have information that they’re planning to arrest everyone around me,” Bobi Wine said.
“If you fear being arrested … we are not your friend … we are serious this time … even if it means jumping into a boda I’ll do it … as you elect me President once again.”
His message has sparked concern among his grassroots — many interpret it as a call that those without courage to face possible detention should distance themselves. While many activists see metaphor and resolve in his words, critics say they verge on gaslighting: rallying followers with fear and drama instead of concrete plans.
The Electoral Commission has confirmed 23-24 September 2025 as the presidential nomination window.
Bobi Wine is expected to hold post-nomination rallies in opposition strongholds Katwe and Nateete.
President Museveni is slated to open his campaign first from Kololo in Kampala.
Bobi Wine has previously made urgent claims of expecting immediate change, calling for leadership turnover and accusing the regime of panic. However, critics point to a history of similar warnings — about arrests, intimidation, or imminent overthrow — that haven’t resulted in the sweeping systemic changes promised.
