Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, initially gained fame as a musician before venturing into politics.
He was the runner-up in the 2021 presidential race, where he challenged President Museveni’s nearly forty-year rule.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) announced on social media that “Security operatives have made an attempt on his life. He was shot in the leg and is seriously injured.”
In contrast, Ugandan police offered a different version of events.
They claimed that Wine sustained his injuries during a confrontation when officers tried to prevent him and his team from marching.
According to the police, Wine reportedly stumbled while entering his vehicle, leading to the injury. The police statement indicated that an investigation is ongoing to clarify the situation.
“Police officers on site say he tripped while getting into his vehicle, which caused the injury, while Hon. Kyagulanyi and his team maintain he was shot,” the statement noted.
A video shared on social media depicts NUP officials helping Wine as he emerged from Najeem Medical Centre in Bulindo. The footage shows Wine with a bleeding wound on his left leg and visibly distressed.
David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP Secretary General, condemned the incident as a “cowardly action” and “another attempt on his life.” He denounced the persistent violence against opposition figures and called for widespread condemnation.
The Museveni administration has repeatedly been accused by opponents and human rights advocates of stifling dissent, a charge the government denies.
Bobi Wine remains a prominent figure among Uganda’s youth, who are inspired by his rise from humble beginnings and his outspoken criticism of Museveni’s government.
In a nation of 46 million people, Wine symbolizes resistance against the enduring regime.
