Uganda’s main opposition leader, Bobi Wine, known for his fierce opposition to long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, was allegedly shot in the leg by security agents in a northern suburb of Kampala on Tuesday, according to his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Bobi Wine, born Robert Kyagulanyi, transitioned from a pop star to a political figure, emerging as a significant challenger to Museveni in the 2021 presidential election, where he finished as the runner-up.
Museveni has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), NUP claimed, “Security operatives have made an attempt on his life. He was shot in the leg and seriously injured.”
The incident reportedly took place while Wine and his team were marching down a road in the Bulindo neighborhood when the altercation occurred.
However, the Ugandan police provided a different version of events.
According to a statement on X, officers on the scene tried to block Wine and his team, leading to an altercation during which Wine was injured.
The police stated, “Police officers on site claim he stumbled while getting into his vehicle, causing the injury, whereas Hon. Kyagulanyi and his team assert that he was shot.”
A video circulating on social media shows NUP officials assisting Wine as he hobbled out of the Najeem Medical Centre, a bleeding wound visible on his left shin, and a pained expression on his face.
Also, a post by a spokesperson on Wine’s official X page read, “Our President His Excellency Bobi Wine has been shot in the leg by police in Bulindo! He’s been rushed to hospital for urgent medical attention. We’ll keep the country updated on his situation.”
NUP’s Secretary-General, David Lewis Rubongoya, condemned the incident, labeling it a “cowardly action” and yet another attempt on Wine’s life.
“The continuing violence meted out on those opposed to the Museveni regime must be condemned by all people of good conscience,” he added.
Museveni’s government has frequently been accused by opponents and human rights activists of suppressing the opposition, a charge that Museveni has consistently denied.
This incident has further heightened tensions in Uganda, where the political climate remains fraught with allegations of human rights abuses and crackdowns on dissent.
