Tension escalated at the residence of National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, after his family was denied access to his home by heavily deployed military personnel.
Family members led by Bobi Wine’s brother, Mikie Wine on Wednesday 28th January 2026 , were turned away from his residence in Magere – Wakiso District as they disclosed to journalists, sparking protests at the scene as security forces maintained a tight perimeter around the property.
The incident comes despite official assurances from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Minister Chris Baryomunsi had earlier stated that government is not pursuing Bobi Wine, dismissing claims that the opposition leader is under state hunt.
However, the presence of armed personnel at his residence and the denial of entry to his family have raised fresh questions over the government’s position, with observers pointing to a widening gap between official statements and events on the ground.
Musician turned politician, Bobi Wine has remained out of public view since mid-January, following the contested 2026 presidential election, in which President Yoweri Museveni was declared winner. The Magere incident adds to growing post-election tension across the country.
Human rights organisations have reported increased pressure on opposition figures in the post-election period, including arrests of allies and alleged harassment of family members — developments that continue to draw concern from civil society and international observers.
As security remains tight at Magere, the situation underscores the heightened political climate following Uganda’s disputed 2026 polls.
