Tensions in Uganda reached a boiling point this Monday after a military raid on the home of opposition leader Bobi Wine. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba—the nation’s military chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni—has publicly denied allegations that his forces assaulted Wine’s wife, Barbara Kyagulanyi, during the operation.
Conflicting Accounts of the Raid
While General Kainerugaba dismisses the claims, Barbara Kyagulanyi provided a harrowing account of the incident from her hospital bed. She alleges that dozens of men, including several in military uniform, forced their way into the family home while her husband was in hiding.
According to Ms. Kyagulanyi’s testimony:
- Physical Violence: She was struck in the face, resulting in a torn lip, and was choked while being lifted by her waistband.
- Aggressive Harassment: Officers allegedly tore her clothing, leaving her partially exposed during the interrogation.
- Direct Interrogation: The soldiers reportedly demanded information regarding Bobi Wine’s current whereabouts.
- Severe Trauma: The ordeal caused her to lose consciousness. Consequently, she was hospitalized for both physical injuries and psychological distress.
The General’s Public Response
General Kainerugaba addressed these allegations through a post on the social media platform X. His response was characterized by a defiant and dismissive tone toward the opposition.
“My soldiers did not beat up Barbie [Bobi Wine’s] wife,” the General stated. “First of all, we do not beat up women. They are not worth our time. We are looking for her cowardly husband, not her.”
Since the January 15 election—which saw President Museveni secure another term the General has repeatedly demanded Wine’s surrender. Furthermore, he has issued public threats against the opposition leader’s life following widespread allegations of election fraud.
A Broadening Crackdown on the Opposition
The raid on Wine’s residence appears to be part of a larger, more violent post-election climate. The opposition National Unity Party (NUP) maintains that state security is systematically targeting its members.
Recent figures and events include:
- Casualties and Detentions: General Kainerugaba recently confirmed that security forces have killed 30 NUP supporters and detained approximately 2,000 others.
- Targeted Arrests: Close allies of Wine, such as lawmaker Muwanga Kivumbi, have been taken into custody on charges related to election violence.
- Legal Backlash: The Uganda Law Society has formally denounced a “wave of detentions, torture, and enforced disappearance.” They assert that national security should never justify state-sponsored violence.
Long-Term Political Context
President Yoweri Museveni has led Uganda since 1986. Following his latest declared victory, he is set to remain in power until 2031, marking 45 years of continuous rule. Notably, Uganda has not experienced a peaceful transfer of presidential power since its independence.
As the political divide in Uganda deepens, can the nation find a path toward a peaceful resolution?
