By Mulengera Reporters
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially nominated Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, to contest in the 2026 presidential election.
But while the event at the Lweza nomination center appeared procedural, the contrast between state assurances and opposition realities could not have been more glaring.
Justice Simon Byabakama, chairperson of the EC, confirmed that Kyagulanyi had met all legal requirements, including signing the declaration of allegiance and committing to the harmonized campaign schedule.
He instructed the candidate to appoint an official campaign agent and submit a proposed program of meetings and media appearances ahead of the official campaign start on September 29.
Byabakama assured the NUP leader of full state protection throughout the campaign period.
He said the Electoral Commission would provide a vehicle, fuel, bodyguards, and other security arrangements, all funded by the state.
He also said Kyagulanyi was free to meet supporters and unveil his manifesto in designated venues, though rallies and processions were restricted.
While framed as a gesture of neutrality, the security offer raised eyebrows.
The promise of state protection came just moments before Kyagulanyi addressed the media and accused the same security forces of abducting, torturing, and killing his supporters.
He had earlier cited cases of missing persons, exiled lawyers, and threats issued by top military officials.
Kyagulanyi urged his followers to remain disciplined and peaceful, but warned that the regime was preparing to turn the 2026 election into a military operation.
He said his campaign was walking through the valley of death, but insisted that fear would not deter them.
The EC insists the process will be fair and transparent. But as Uganda heads into a heated election season, questions persist over whether the Commission can act as a neutral referee or whether it is merely rubber-stamping an already tilted contest.
