Bobi Wine Distances NUP From Councilor’s Plea To Release Jailed Supporters

National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has publicly disavowed comments made by Ali Kateregga, an NUP Councilor from Masaka, who appealed to President Yoweri Museveni for the release of jailed NUP party supporters.

Kateregga’s plea, delivered during the swearing-in ceremony of new ministers at State House, stirred controversy as he beseeched President Museveni to pardon supporters arrested during the 2021 general elections. Clad in NUP’s signature red beret, Kateregga argued that the detained supporters were misled by politicians pursuing personal interests, urging their release as a significant gesture ahead of Eid celebrations.

In response, President Museveni assured that the matter would be considered for supporters not involved in capital offenses such as murder.

However, Kyagulanyi swiftly distanced the party from Kateregga’s plea during a gathering at NUP Headquarters in Makerere Kavule for belated Women’s Day celebrations. Denouncing Kateregga’s actions, Kyagulanyi emphasized that they would not compromise on fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution through negotiations with the government.

This marks a consistent stance by Bobi Wine, who has previously rebuffed government negotiations regarding detained NUP members. Notably, last year, he rejected calls, including from Kimaanya Kabonera MP Dr. Abed Bwanika, to negotiate the release of detained NUP members.

In addition to addressing the controversy, Kyagulanyi encouraged NUP Women leaders to pursue elective positions while urging them to steer clear of corruption. His wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi, echoed the sentiment, urging women to demonstrate their leadership capabilities and advocate for top positions within the government.

Dr. Lina Zedriga, NUP’s Deputy President for the Northern region, commended Bobi Wine for fostering inclusivity within the party. Zedriga highlighted her recent appointment as acting President during Kyagulanyi’s absence from the country as a testament to the party’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality.