Ugandan opposition leader and National Unity Platform (NUP) president, Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, was detained by security personnel immediately after his arrival at Entebbe International Airport.
He had been returning from an overseas trip, and NUP leaders had planned a procession to welcome him, dubbed the “one million march.”
Security Measures and Warning
In anticipation of Bobi Wine’s return and the planned procession, security operatives had implemented a well-coordinated strategy to prevent NUP members from reaching the airport to greet their leader.
Police had warned against the procession and urged the public not to participate, as it coincided with President Museveni’s gathering at Kololo ceremonial grounds for World Teachers’ Day.
Security’s Tactics
Security measures involved engaging leaders of transport groups, including boda boda riders and others in the informal sector, to discourage their participation in the procession.
Leaders were warned of potential consequences for their members’ involvement.
Influence on Ghetto Youths
Security also reached out to leaders of the Ghetto Youths, a group that has received government support in the past, to ensure they did not participate in the procession. These efforts aimed to minimize public support for the welcoming march.
Deployment and Blockades
Security forces were deployed in various parts of the city, especially Constitutional Square, with roadblocks erected on the Kampala-Entebbe Road to inspect vehicles potentially carrying procession participants.
Heavy deployments around the NUP headquarters in Kamwoya were aimed at preventing protests.
Arrest Plan
Security considered airlifting Bobi Wine, but ultimately decided to pick him up at the airport upon his arrival.
He was taken to the old airport and then driven to his home via the Entebbe Expressway. Bobi Wine asserted that he was not officially in Uganda, as he did not go through immigration and was “picked illegally.”
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango confirmed Bobi Wine’s arrival at his home and denied rumors of his arrest, stating that he had been “escorted” there.
Meanwhile, business activities and movements in the area reportedly continued without significant disruption.
Bobi Wine’s detention upon his return underscores the ongoing political tensions in Uganda, and further developments will be closely monitored.