The President of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, has reportedly left Uganda after spending more than two months in hiding following the January 15 presidential election.

In a video message released on Saturday through his social media platforms, Kyagulanyi confirmed that he had travelled abroad to engage with supporters and partners in the diaspora. He said the visit is part of efforts to advance what he described as the struggle for democracy in Uganda.

While addressing his supporters, Kyagulanyi expressed gratitude to individuals who sheltered and supported him during the period he remained underground.

“I thank all fellow Ugandans who protected me while the regime was looking for me. Many of you fed me, clothed me and gave me a safe place to stay. I may not mention your names for security reasons, but may God bless you,” he said.

He explained that over the coming weeks he intends to meet allies and international partners before eventually returning to Uganda.

“During this time I will be meeting friends across the world. After that, I will return home to continue pushing for freedom and democracy,” he said.

Kyagulanyi also accused security agencies of mounting roadblocks and conducting operations aimed at locating him. According to him, security personnel have been stopping vehicles and ordering motorcycle riders to remove their helmets during inspections.

He further alleged that security forces raided the home of his personal assistant, Don Shariff Najja, and detained Najja’s wife after failing to find either of them.
The opposition politician also criticized authorities over the arrest and dismissal of nine police officers who had been assigned to protect him during the campaign period by the Electoral Commission.

According to Kyagulanyi, the officers were punished because they allegedly refused to spy on him after their assignment ended.

In his absence, Kyagulanyi announced that NUP Deputy President Dr. Alina Zedriga will act as the party leader until he returns.

Security forces had recently increased checkpoints and vehicle searches in several areas around Kampala, including Gayaza, leading to speculation that authorities were searching for the opposition leader.

However, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi dismissed the claims, saying the operations were aimed at enforcing traffic regulations rather than targeting Kyagulanyi.