Muhoozi Kainerugaba Denies Claims of Assault on Barbie Kyagulanyi During Security Operation

By Our Reporter

Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations and CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has dismissed allegations that soldiers under his command assaulted Barbie Kyagulanyi, the wife of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, during a recent security operation at the family’s residence.

In a statement issued on social media, Gen. Muhoozi said no soldier beat or harmed Barbie Kyagulanyi, insisting that the operation was not intended to target women.

He stated that the soldiers were searching for an individual he referred to as “Kabobi,” and not Bobi Wine’s wife.“My soldier didn’t beat up Barbie Kyagulanyi. We don’t harm women,” Muhoozi said, adding that the soldiers’ focus was strictly on their operational objective.

The remarks come amid growing public concern and condemnation following reports by Bobi Wine that armed, masked security personnel raided his home, assaulted family members, and isolated his wife during the operation.

The opposition leader described the incident as brutal and unlawful, sparking reactions from human rights activists, opposition figures, and members of the international community.

While Gen. Muhoozi denied any wrongdoing by the soldiers, his comments have continued to draw criticism online, particularly over the language used in addressing the allegations.

Critics argue that the statement fails to adequately address concerns about the conduct of security forces and the broader issue of alleged human rights abuses during political operations.

Security agencies have not yet released a detailed official report clarifying the purpose of the operation, the identity of the person being sought, or whether any investigations have been launched into the incident.

The episode adds to a series of tense confrontations between state security agencies and opposition leaders as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, a period already marked by heightened political activity and scrutiny over civil liberties.