KAMPALA, Uganda — Police used tear gas to disperse crowds at a campaign rally for Ugandan presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in Kampala on Thursday. The incident, which occurred in the central business district, has drawn attention to the ongoing tensions surrounding the presidential election scheduled for January 2026.
Footage from the scene showed police firing tear gas canisters into the air as supporters of Bobi Wine attempted to gather for the rally. Eyewitnesses reported that the gas caused panic among the crowd, leading to a stampede as people sought to escape the noxious fumes. Several individuals were treated for minor injuries at nearby medical facilities, although no serious injuries were reported.
The police action comes amid a broader context of heightened political tensions in Uganda, where Bobi Wine has emerged as a prominent opposition figure. The musician-turned-politician has been a vocal critic of President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986. Bobi Wine’s campaign has focused on issues such as corruption, unemployment, and human rights abuses, resonating particularly with younger voters.
The Ugandan government has faced criticism from international human rights organizations for its handling of opposition rallies and political dissent. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of police violence against opposition supporters, including arbitrary arrests and excessive use of force. The police have defended their actions, stating that they are necessary to maintain public order and prevent violence during political gatherings.
Bobi Wine’s campaign has been marked by a series of confrontations with law enforcement. In November 2020, he was arrested during a campaign rally, sparking widespread protests that resulted in the deaths of dozens of people. The unrest highlighted the deep divisions within Ugandan society and raised concerns about the state of democracy in the country.
The upcoming election is particularly significant as it will be the first time since the 1980s that Museveni will face a serious challenge from a united opposition. Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) party has gained traction in recent years, particularly among younger voters who are disillusioned with the status quo. The party has positioned itself as a champion of democratic reforms and social justice.
In response to the growing popularity of the NUP, the government has implemented a series of measures aimed at curbing dissent. These include restrictions on public gatherings, increased surveillance of opposition activities, and the use of force to disperse crowds. Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader strategy to stifle political opposition and maintain Museveni’s grip on power.
The use of tear gas at Bobi Wine’s rally has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who argue that such tactics are disproportionate and violate the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their political views. The incident has also drawn attention from international observers, who are closely monitoring the political climate in Uganda as the election approaches.
The implications of the police’s actions extend beyond the immediate incident. The use of force against opposition supporters may further galvanize Bobi Wine’s base and increase public discontent with the government. As the election date approaches, the potential for unrest remains high, particularly if the opposition perceives that the electoral process is being manipulated or undermined.
In the wake of the incident, Bobi Wine condemned the police’s actions, calling for an end to the violence and intimidation faced by opposition supporters. He urged his followers to remain peaceful and committed to the cause of democracy in Uganda. The NUP has vowed to continue its campaign despite the challenges, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the need for change in the country.
As Uganda prepares for the upcoming election, the events at Bobi Wine’s rally serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the nation. The interplay between state power and civil liberties will be a critical issue in the months ahead, as citizens navigate the complexities of political participation in a climate marked by fear and repression. The outcome of the election will not only shape the future of Uganda but also have implications for the broader East African region, where democratic governance remains a contentious issue.
