Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine and the president of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, has declared a nationwide tour set to commence next week. The tour aims to inaugurate NUP party offices across the nation and rally support among the populace.
In a media briefing held in Kampala on Wednesday, Kyagulanyi emphasized the legal distinction between his campaign efforts and those of Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of the current president. Muhoozi, a serving military officer, is restricted by law from participating in political campaigning. Kyagulanyi asserted that politicians are entitled to connect with the people, as permitted by the law.
Despite previous encounters with security forces during their attempts at a nationwide mobilization campaign, Kyagulanyi remains resolute. He stated that the past hindrances would not deter the NUP from pursuing its objective.
David Lewis Rubongoya, the NUP Secretary General, confirmed that all requisite prerequisites for conducting meetings have been met. Rubongoya disclosed that letters have been submitted to the Inspector General of Police and the Electoral Commission, while venues for public rallies have been booked.
While addressing the World Bank's decision to suspend loans for Uganda due to the recently passed Anti-gay Act, Bobi Wine expressed mixed sentiments. He welcomed the move but also criticized what he perceived as a selective approach towards human rights. He emphasized that the international community should consider human rights in a comprehensive manner, extending beyond issues of sexual orientation.
Kyagulanyi commented on the ongoing scandals within the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), where certain senior party leaders have accused Nandala Mafabi and Patrick Amuriat Oboi of diverting funds to hinder NUP's progress. Kyagulanyi acknowledged the allegations but noted that they were not surprising. He cited Museveni's historical strategy of influencing opposition leaders, asserting that such attempts have not deterred the public's quest for change.
Addressing allegations that NUP has not provided adequate support to their Member of Parliament, Muhammad Ssegirinya, who is reportedly receiving medical treatment in the Netherlands, Kyagulanyi assured that the party and parliament are actively addressing the matter. He called on Ssegirinya not to become a pawn in the hands of political opportunists aiming to discredit NUP.
This week, MP Muhammad Nsereko brought attention to Ssegirinya's situation on social media platforms, alleging that both the parliament and NUP had neglected him. Ssegirinya had disclosed that the medical expenses incurred were beyond his means.
Parliament responded that it was constrained in offering immediate assistance to Ssegirinya due to the lack of adherence to the required procedures for seeking medical treatment abroad. It was noted that Ssegirinya had departed for the Netherlands without obtaining clearance from the medical board responsible for international referrals.
