Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine has announced that he has temporarily left Uganda after spending nearly two months in hiding following the country’s controversial presidential election
in January.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, challenged the results of the vote that secured another term for longtime president Yoweri Museveni. The opposition figure alleges the election was marred by widespread fraud and intimidation.
In a five-minute video message posted on X on Saturday, Wine said he had departed Uganda for what he described as “critical engagements outside” the country. He did not reveal his current location or provide details about the meetings.
“At the right time I will come back and continue with the cause,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to political change in Uganda.
The pop-star-turned-politician had reportedly been hiding since fleeing his home in Kampala, claiming security forces were attempting to arrest him. According to Wine, authorities set up roadblocks and carried out raids as part of efforts to locate him.
Wine has repeatedly accused the government of suppressing his campaign during the election period, saying security forces blocked rallies and detained supporters.
Neither the Ugandan government nor the military immediately responded to requests for comment on Wine’s latest statement.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba—who is also Museveni’s son—has said in social media posts that the military is searching for Wine. However, authorities have not publicly clarified what charges, if any, the opposition leader might face.
In his message, Wine accused President Museveni of “usurping the will of the people” and vowed to use his time abroad to rally international support.
“I will engage our international allies,” he said, adding that he intends to return to Uganda to continue what he described as a struggle for freedom and democracy.
Museveni, now 81, has ruled Uganda since 1986. His repeated election victories have long been disputed by opposition groups and human rights organizations, which accuse the government of using intimidation and violence to maintain power—claims officials consistently deny. Photo by Mbowasport, Wikimedia commons.