Uganda Police Clash with Bobi Wine Supporters During Election Campaign

Police Disrupt Uganda Opposition Campaign

Police in Uganda deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse supporters of Bobi Wine, the country’s leading opposition presidential candidate, during his campaign rally in a central district on Thursday. Authorities said the event violated public order regulations, while Wine’s team described the police response as part of ongoing political intimidation.

Background and Context

Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has repeatedly faced restrictions on his campaign activities. Since announcing his candidacy, his rallies have been frequently disrupted by security forces, often under the pretext of enforcing safety rules or maintaining order.

“This is not a democracy. The regime is using the police to silence the will of Ugandans,” said a spokesperson from Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP).

The confrontation took place as thousands of supporters gathered to hear Wine’s speech. Witnesses reported chaos as police fired canisters and water jets into the crowd, forcing many to flee the scene.

Government Position

Law enforcement officials maintained that the rally breached conditions of lawful assembly. According to police spokesperson Fred Enanga, the intervention aimed to prevent potential violence and ensure public safety.

“No candidate is above the law. Campaigns must follow proper guidelines,” Enanga told reporters in Kampala.

Broader Implications

The incident adds to growing concerns about political freedoms in Uganda ahead of next year’s general elections. International observers and rights groups have criticized the pattern of interference with opposition activities, warning it undermines transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

Author’s Summary

Ugandan police clashed with Bobi Wine’s supporters, using water cannons and tear gas to disperse a campaign rally, highlighting persistent tension between the opposition and security forces in the run-up to elections.

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Africanews Africanews — 2025-11-28

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