The Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has demanded the immediate arrest of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine.
In a controversial social media post, Muhoozi referred to Kyagulanyi as a “rebel leader” and an “illegal delinquent,” claiming he is unfit to run for Uganda’s presidency. “Police arrest Kabobi immediately! Hold him until you bring him to me… I personally consider Kabobi a rebel leader, who is fair game for elimination,” Muhoozi wrote, using a disparaging nickname for Kyagulanyi.
The post included explicit threats of violence, with Muhoozi stating, “Kabobi, I’m going to beat the crap out of you… Just utter my name or my family’s name again, and I will break all those monkey teeth of yours.”
Kyagulanyi, a former musician turned politician, has become a prominent opposition figure and a vocal critic of President Museveni’s government, gaining significant support among Uganda’s youth. His growing influence has made him a key player in the nation’s political landscape.
Muhoozi’s comments have been met with widespread condemnation on social media and among political analysts, who describe them as a troubling escalation of political tensions. Human rights groups have called for an investigation into the threats and stressed the need to protect opposition leaders.
Kyagulanyi has expressed concerns about his safety following Muhoozi’s statements, suggesting that his life is at risk. Supporters of the NUP have criticized the remarks as part of a broader effort to intimidate opposition figures.
This incident unfolds amid a politically charged atmosphere in Uganda, where concerns over government crackdowns on dissent and restrictions on democratic freedoms are growing. Analysts warn that such inflammatory rhetoric could further deepen divisions within the country.