Emmanuel Dombo, the spokesperson for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has revealed that the party is closely monitoring the country tour undertaken by the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine. Dombo made these comments during an appearance on the NBS TV Morning Breeze show on Tuesday.
"As Bobi Wine moves around, this gives us an opportunity to notice those who are close to him, and the movers in the areas he has been to. These will become a target for convincing by many political parties," Dombo explained.
He further noted that this tour provides valuable insights into Bobi Wine's strengths and areas of influence, which will be essential for strategic planning.
"He has moved around the country, and he is predictable; you can tell where his strength is. As a party, we shall see how to counter," Dombo added.
However, Dombo also emphasized that there is nothing particularly new that Bobi Wine's tour has brought forth. He stated that Bobi Wine's strength lies in his ability to mobilize large crowds as he travels through different regions.
"The only thing the media is talking about Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi's countrywide tour is the crowds. If he had been stopped by security, he would be talking about Human Rights," Dombo commented.
He also highlighted Bobi Wine's celebrity status and noted that a similar turnout could be expected if other prominent opposition figures, such as Kizza Besigye, toured the same areas.
Dombo concluded by expressing the importance of democracy and political engagement in Uganda, stating that as Bobi Wine's tour unfolds, it presents an opportunity for the country to build the democratic foundation it needs.
Social researcher Yusuf Sserunkuma expressed excitement about witnessing an opposition politician going around the country without interruptions.
"For the first time in our politics, we are seeing a leader of the opposition going around the country mobilizing without being interrupted. I think Museveni and his old guard are now giving it to the new guard."
However, Sserunkuma's excitement was tempered by anticipation of Bobi Wine's tour in Buganda.
"I am very anxious to see what happens when Bobi Wine's countrywide tour gets to Buganda. I am excited to see how it is going to happen. Before we celebrate the birth of democratic freedom, I am waiting to see how he will be treated in Kampala," he remarked.
The ongoing country tour by Bobi Wine and the NUP has become a focal point in Uganda's political landscape, drawing attention from various quarters and sparking discussions about the evolving political dynamics in the country.
