The United States has voiced its concerns over the reported arrest of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, upon his return to Uganda.
Kyagulanyi was reportedly taken into custody immediately after disembarking from a Rwanda Air plane.
He had returned from international mobilization tours in Canada and South Africa, and a number of journalists and NUP supporters were also detained.
U.S. Condemnation
In a statement released on Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Uganda condemned the alleged detention of Bobi Wine and his supporters.
The statement expressed the U.S.’s deep concerns about the situation and highlighted reports of opposition leader supporters also being detained.
Urging Respect for Freedom of Assembly
The U.S. government called upon the Ugandan government to respect the freedom of assembly and permit political parties to operate without interference.
This statement indicates the international community’s watchful eye on the developments involving opposition figures like Bobi Wine.
In Other News
Denial by Ugandan Police
However, Ugandan police refuted claims of arresting Bobi Wine, stating that security personnel had merely escorted him to his home in Magere.
Bobi Wine, on the other hand, asserted that he was being “unlawfully” besieged by security personnel at his residence, stating that he was under house arrest and surrounded by soldiers and police.
The situation surrounding Bobi Wine’s return and the alleged restrictions on his movement has become a subject of concern and controversy both domestically and internationally.
The details of this ongoing matter are expected to evolve, and we will continue to monitor and provide updates as new information emerges.