Uganda's National Unity Platform Rallies in Busoga Amidst Political Tensions

The National Unity Platform (NUP) party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, held a mobilization rally in Busoga after facing initial blockages. This rally marks a significant moment for the party as it continues its efforts to galvanize support across Uganda.

On May 29, 2024, Bobi Wine and his entourage, which included Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi and several party legislators, navigated through various townships in Mukono District, opening party offices and engaging with supporters. Despite police initially blocking their convoy at Nasuuti village, the team eventually reached the main rally venue at Ntawo playground.

The National Unity Platform's rally in Busoga and its ongoing mobilization efforts have significant implications for Uganda's political environment and the 2026 general election. The party's ability to overcome challenges from law enforcement and internal divisions will influence the country's democratic trajectory and the balance of power in the region.

Thousands of enthusiastic supporters lined the roadsides to catch a glimpse of the former presidential candidate. Bobi Wine addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of following the law and the need for political mobilization. He stated, "We are not criminals, we follow and obey the laws, our team sat with police and came to an agreement to allow us have these mobilization tours and rallies."

Despite the successful rally in Mukono, the NUP has faced significant challenges in other regions. Previous attempts to hold mobilization tours in Kamuli and Pallisa were blocked by police, reflecting ongoing tensions between the opposition party and law enforcement. Internal Affairs Minister Gen Kahinda Otafiire recently warned the new Police leadership against interrupting lawful opposition political gatherings, highlighting concerns about the perceived partisanship of the police force.

In a related development, Moses Bigirwa, the NUP coordinator for the Busoga Sub-region, launched a new pressure group called the Eastern Revolutionary Platform (ERP) on May 28, 2024, in Kamuli District. Bigirwa, who is president of ERP, stated that the platform aims to "awaken the Eastern region to demand for what it deserves, ignite the political mindset for us to negotiate for our share of the national cake and interest people into active state matters and power."

Bigirwa clarified that ERP is not a breakaway from NUP but rather a means to "energize the dynamics in the regime change game plan." However, there are concerns within NUP that ERP might dilute Kyagulanyi's support in the Busoga sub-region, given Bigirwa's influence as a mobilizer. Earlier this year, Bigirwa was suspended by Bobi Wine for allegedly promoting "diversionary politics and in-house fights" in Kamuli and Busoga.

NUP continues its nationwide mobilization tours, Bobi Wine has urged his supporters to remain hopeful and participate in the upcoming 2026 general elections. During the rally in Mukono, he emphasized the power of their votes, stating, "Don't lose hope in voting because time is going to come when what we have voted is what is declared. It's your vote that gives us confidence to send MPs to parliament. It's your vote that makes us dismiss the corrupt."

The NUP's mobilization efforts are vital as they prepare for the 2026 general election, with Bobi Wine set to contest as a presidential aspirant. The party aims to build grassroots structures and strengthen its support base despite facing significant challenges from law enforcement and internal divisions.

To recap, the National Unity Platform's rally in Busoga and the launch of the Eastern Revolutionary Platform highlight the ongoing political dynamics in Uganda. As NUP continues its mobilization tours, the party faces both external pressures and internal challenges, underscoring the complexities of Uganda's political terrain.

Key Takeaways

• NUP holds mobilization rally in Busoga despite initial police blockage.
• Bobi Wine emphasizes law-abiding politics and voter mobilization.
• NUP faces challenges from police and internal divisions.
• Eastern Revolutionary Platform launched, sparking concerns about NUP support.
• NUP continues nationwide mobilization tours ahead of 2026 general election.