Uganda’s opposition leader, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has had his home surrounded by military forces as the country approaches its January 15 elections.
The National Unity Platform (NUP)- Uk Chapter confirmed in a social media post on Wednesday that the opposition leader’s home has been surrounded by the military and that he was not allowed to move out.
“We have received reports from Uganda that the home of Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi is currently surrounded by Uganda’s Police and military ahead of the January 15 elections,” read the post.
This action has raised alarm among citizens and the international community, as it signals possible intimidation of voters and opposition leaders ahead of the general elections scheduled for Thursday, January 15.
Also Read: The Story of Bobi Wine, Ugandan Musician Eyeing the Presidential Seat for Second Time
Uganda’s Internet Shutdown Affects Everyone
Besides the military presence at the opposition leader’s home, the Ugandan government on January 13 ordered a nationwide internet shutdown.
In a statement dated January 13, 2026, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the suspension follows a “strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee.”
The commission instructed all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to implement the temporary shutdown.
“The measure is necessary to mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud and related risks, as well as preventing incitement of violence that could affect public confidence and national security during the election period,” the directive states.
The directive includes suspending mobile broadband, fibre-optic networks, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links, and satellite internet services. Operators are also required to maintain access to “strictly defined” essential services and systems.
The party has condemned the action by the government, saying Uganda now joins a number of authoritarian regimes worldwide that suspend internet and mobile services during elections.
The shutdown deepens the information darkness surrounding the electoral process, especially at a time when the government is arresting civilians and opposition figures.
Also Read: US and UK Among Countries That Have Issued Warnings Over Uganda’s Elections
Calls for Peaceful Participation and International Action
The National Unity Platform has called on the international community to take action rather than merely monitor developments in Uganda during the election.
NUP stresses that despite the intimidation tactics, people must remain committed to democracy, ensuring that their votes count and that the electoral process is transparent.
Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni has been criticized for the actions of threatening lives and destroying public trust since he has been serving since 1986.
In a previous social media post, the NUP encouraged all citizens to continue participating peacefully in the elections, vote freely, and push for a Uganda that respects democracy and accountability.
“We call on the Ugandan people not to be intimidated by regime violence or by the internet shutdown. We urge all citizens to participate peacefully in the January 15 elections, vote for a new Uganda, and remain committed to pursuing democracy and accountability for a freer and more just country,” read part of the post.
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