By Aggrey Baba
In a powerful address following his nomination for Uganda’s 2026 presidential elections, on Wednesday, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), issued a stern warning to President Yoweri Museveni ( also a contesting candidate) urging him to facilitate a peaceful democratic transition of power.
Kyagulanyi emphasized that the upcoming elections represent a turning point for the nation, advocating for a system that rewards merit over connections and pledging accountability and fair governance.
Kyagulanyi’s remarks came after his official nomination by the Electoral Commission, declared by Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, at EC headquarters in Lweza-Lubowa, marking his second bid for the highest office.
Kyagulanyi who arrived at the EC headquarters, minutes before his gazzeted time for nomination, 2:00pm, was escoted by his lovely wife, Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi (Barbie Kyagulanyi) who was dressed smartly in a white women’s suit and a red hat, while Kyagulanyi was dressed in a blue suite, which made them, as usual look outstanding, portraying how prepared they were for the event.
He framed the 2026 elections as a defining moment for Uganda’s future, calling on citizens to mobilize in overwhelming numbers (making it impossible for the rulling party to rig, as he put it) to ensure their voices are heard.
Kyagulanyi said the Kavule based party is going into this election as a way of protesting against the injustice that has been occasioned to Ugandans for the last 40 years,” describing the vote as a lawful mass protest against what he termed as “four decades of repression” under Museveni.
He further called on Museveni to let Ugandans decide for themselves, as far as choosing their next president is cincerned, pledging room for reconciliation and forgiveness for the pain which has been inflicted by the NRM regiem, upon him, NUP supporters and other opposition leaders. Here, Kyagulanyi, with deep sorrow made tribute to the fallen members of NUP who lost their lives in the 2021 campaign, allegedly murdered (as he normally puts it) by the Police and army.
Kayagulanyi also dedicated this time’s presidential run to to his party members like the Deputy Speaksperson, Waiswa Mufumbiro, Edward Ssebuwufu (Eddie Mutwe), Gaddafi, Bobi Young, among others, who are currently in prison over allegedly trumped up charges.
Addressing President Museveni directly, Kyagulanyi warned that the era of unchecked power is drawing to a close, likening the current administration to a “crumbling fortress,” suggesting that the walls of authoritarianism are weakening and that the time for a peaceful transition is now. Bobi Wine called on the ruling government to respect the will of the people and to ensure a smooth and non-violent transfer of power.
The NUP leader also highlighted the importance of justice for political prisoners and the safe return of Ugandans in the diaspora. He urged for a system that upholds the rule of law and guarantees freedoms for all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.
Kyagulanyi’s call for a democratic transition resonates with many Ugandans seeking change and accountability. His message underscores the growing demand for a government that serves the interests of the people and upholds democratic principles.
