KAMPALA, UGANDA: 04 January 2026– National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has issued an “Urgent Security Notice” to party leaders and activists, alleging the commencement of a nationwide operation aimed at “mass abductions and enforced disappearances” ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a detailed statement released today, Kyagulanyi specifically named the Crime Intelligence unit, under the leadership of Major General Christopher Ddamulira, as the orchestrator of the operation. The opposition leader claimed to have “credible information” that the crackdown began yesterday, primarily targeting urban centers including Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono.
The NUP president alleges that security executors have been divided into specialized groups, with each reportedly ordered to abduct at least ten leaders or activists within their specific areas of operation.
”The regime will target leaders, but they cannot kill us all,” Kyagulanyi stated, urging supporters to maintain momentum for their “Protest Vote 2026” campaign despite the alleged threats.
Strict Precautionary Measures Advised
In response to the perceived threat, the NUP leadership has provided a 12-point safety protocol for its members. Key recommendations include:
Digital Security: Disabling live location sharing and securing phones with strong passwords rather than biometric data (Face ID/Fingerprints).
Physical Safety: Avoiding predictable routines, moving in groups, and frequently changing sleeping locations.
Family Protection: Moving immediate family members, particularly children, to safe locations to prevent them from being used as “bait.”
Communication: Avoiding sensitive discussions regarding “vote protection plans” over direct phone calls and deleting digital trails of planned activities.
However, this is not the first time Kyagulanyi is issuing statements related to the “impending arrests.” On January 2, 2026, he posted on social media a message claiming he had received a tip off from the security circles about his impending arrest. This however was dismissed by the army and police as unfounded and provocative.
“I’ve learnt from security cicrles of a plot by the desperate regime to have me arrested before polling day in order to create a pre-emptive massacre akin to what they did in November 2020. That way, they will be able to carry out massive arrests and abductions and get justification to deploy the military in every spot. Among other plans, is for that brutal police officer called Bravo to provoke a confrontation in Mbale City or the neighbouring districts so that they get the justification. The other plan is to deploy goons, dress them in our Party colors, and project us as violent. We urge our people to remain peaceful and non-violent BUT VERY ASSERTIVE.” Kyagulanyi posted on January 2, 2026.
”We are the Leaders” -Kyagulanyi
The statement took an emotive turn as Kyagulanyi called on the “people of Uganda” to take personal responsibility for the movement’s continuity. He specifically instructed supporters to immediately fill the roles of any arrested polling agents or leaders.
”If one leader is picked up—even if it is me—let that not dampen our spirits,” he said. “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”
Government and Security Response
The Uganda Police and the Directorate of Crime Intelligence have yet to issue a formal response to these specific allegations. However, in previous weeks, Maj. Gen. Ddamulira has maintained that security operations are aimed at preventing “criminal activities” and “chaotic scenes” during the election cycle, rather than targeting political affiliation.
