President Museveni has accused National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, of ferrying supporters to his campaign rallies to create the impression of large crowds.
In his end-of-year address, Museveni said some of the 38 members of Kyagulanyi’s campaign team who were arrested in Mbarara in November allegedly confessed to transporting supporters using a fleet of vehicles.
“Supporters of Mr Kyagulanyi who were arrested at Mile 4 in Mbarara confessed that they had a fleet of 200 vehicles that transported nomadic audiences to create the image of big crowds at the venue,” Museveni said.
The president further claimed that some of the mobile crowds associated with Kyagulanyi’s campaign had been involved in acts of looting. He cited reported attacks in Abim, saying he personally spoke to some of the affected individuals.
While promising a peaceful election, Museveni warned that anyone planning to destabilise the forthcoming polls would face consequences.
He referenced previously organised protests, including the “Tajja Kulayira” demonstrations following the 2021 elections and the recent Gen Z protests, noting that security agencies were capable of maintaining order.
Museveni urged Ugandans to turn up in large numbers to vote, assuring them of safety at polling stations.
“Ugandans, come out and vote and nobody will intimidate you. Anybody who tries will have himself to blame and will end badly,” he said.
He also cautioned opposition groups against intimidating voters, saying every Ugandan has the right to participate freely in the electoral process.
