National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, demonstrated his political clout in Masaka during a recent mobilization rally.
Despite police diversions and threats from rival politicians, the rally drew massive support from locals.
Kyagulanyi’s supporters followed him along the 120km journey to Masaka, despite police efforts to divert traffic to less crowded routes.
This show of strength came in the face of warnings from Mathias Mpuuga and Abedi Bwanika, who had cautioned Bobi Wine to stay away from Masaka, labeling him a persona non grata. However, their threats of a boycott were overshadowed by the warm reception from the people of Masaka.
Political analysts now believe that Mpuuga and Bwanika’s departure from NUP is imminent. Siraje Nsanja, a political scientist, commented, “It is clear that the two politicians have parted ways with NUP and are on their way out.”
Despite their absence, the NUP rally was a resounding success, showcasing a large turnout of enthusiastic supporters. Bobi Wine used the opportunity to reaffirm his influence in the region and dismiss claims of disunity within the party. He emphasized the need for leadership change and the fight against corruption, which he views as the main barrier to effective service delivery in Uganda.
The rally was not without incident, as Kyagulanyi’s convoy encountered stand-offs with security forces in Mpigi and Lukaya Townships. Police used teargas and live rounds to disperse the crowds, forcing Kyagulanyi to take an alternative route to enter Masaka and avoid large gatherings in the Nyendo suburb.
NUP remains a dominant force in the Masaka subregion, with many leaders at various levels aligning with the party. However, the potential departure of Mpuuga and Bwanika could signal a significant shift in the local political landscape.
 leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, demonstrated his political clout in Masaka during a recent mobilization rally.){kind=link}