KAMPALA, Uganda — Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, says his family was beaten and his home was raided by masked and armed soldiers as political tensions deepen following the disputed January 15 presidential election.
In a statement posted on his official social media accounts late on January 23, 2026, Wine said a group of “masked, armed soldiers” broke into his residence in Magere, Wakiso District, outside Kampala and assaulted relatives who were present. At the time of the alleged incident, Wine was not at home and remains in hiding.
“A group of masked, armed soldiers has just broken into our house and beaten up my family members. They have currently isolated my wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi, alone. Their intentions are unclear!” he said in the post.
Video footage and family accounts
A video circulating on social media appears to show Wine’s wife, Barbie Itungo Kyagulanyi, questioning individuals inside the property, asking who they were and why they were there.
The footage, which quickly drew attention online, shows heavily armed men in uniform moving around the compound.
The couple’s son, Solomon Kampala, also shared the clip and confirmed the presence of military personnel at the residence, reinforcing claims that security forces were inside the compound.
Post-election environment
The reported raid marks at least the second such operation at Wine’s home since the contested general election.
Wine rejected the official results that declared incumbent President Yoweri Museveni the winner with 71.65% of the vote, alleging widespread irregularities including ballot stuffing.
Since the vote, Uganda has witnessed a tense political atmosphere characterised by an internet blackout during the elections, widespread detentions of opposition supporters, and public confrontations between security forces and civil society.
International observers and rights groups have raised concerns about human rights and the rule of law.
Allegations, denials, and uncertainty
While Bobi Wine’s camp has described the latest raid as part of a broader crackdown, government authorities have not publicly confirmed the operation or responded directly to the specific claims.
In previous incidents, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and police have denied allegations of unlawful detention or abduction, sometimes stating actions were for “security reasons” or to prevent violence.
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Wine’s location remains undisclosed, and his status uncertain, with supporters and international interest groups continuing to monitor developments.
International and domestic reactions
The incident has reignited scrutiny of Uganda’s political climate following the election and contributed to calls from human rights advocates for restraint and adherence to constitutional protections.
The United Nations Secretary-General has urged respect for human rights and the rule of law amid reports of detentions and confrontations between opposition figures and security forces.
