Security forces raid Bobi Wine home, Barbie Kyagulanyi isolated

Kampala — Tension gripped Magere, Wakiso District, on Saturday morning after security forces reportedly raided the home of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in an operation that his party says left his wife, Barbie Itungo Kyagulanyi, isolated inside the residence.

According to statements released by Mr Kyagulanyi and the National Unity Platform (NUP), armed soldiers entered the compound in the early hours, while the opposition leader was not at home. Videos shared online show Ms Kyagulanyi confronting security personnel and demanding to know the reason for their presence.

Mr Kyagulanyi said the soldiers sealed off the home and restricted movement within the compound, raising fears for the safety of his family.

“They have invaded my home again. My wife is surrounded and held inside the house,” Mr Kyagulanyi wrote on social media.

By midday, there had been no official statement from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) or police explaining the operation.

The incident comes amid heightened political tension following the disputed general election, which Mr Kyagulanyi rejected, alleging widespread irregularities. He has since said he is in hiding, claiming that security agencies are seeking to arrest him.

The raid also follows a series of public statements by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who has in recent days warned that security agencies will act firmly against what he termed post-election unrest. Gen Muhoozi has previously called on Mr Kyagulanyi to present himself to authorities, framing the matter as a security concern.

Political analysts say the presence of soldiers at the private residence of an opposition leader, particularly in his absence, risks further inflaming an already volatile situation.

Ms Kyagulanyi, who has become increasingly visible in political and civic engagements, has not issued a separate statement, but her appearance in the circulating videos sparked concern from civil society groups and opposition supporters, who described the incident as intimidation.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly urged security agencies to respect the law and protect civilians, including families of political actors, during security operations.

As of publication time, the security deployment at the Magere residence had not been lifted, and questions remained over the purpose of the operation and the whereabouts of Mr Kyagulanyi.

ALSO READ: Muhoozi Deletes Threatening Posts Against Bobi Wine After International Backlash