Ugandan opposition leader and pop star Bobi Wine announced his intention to run for president again, criticizing the West for its perceived silence on human rights abuses in Uganda.
Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, will challenge long-serving President Yoweri Museveni in the upcoming January election.
“Yeah, I’ve expressed my availability on behalf of my team,” Wine told Reuters, emphasizing that participation offers a chance to “expose the regime” and mobilize Ugandans for change.
He contested the 2021 election results, citing widespread irregularities, which the government denied.
Wine accused Western governments of complicity in Uganda’s “gross human rights violations,” including abductions and torture of his supporters.
“Some leaders in the West are complicit in our suffering,” he stated, arguing their focus on business deals overshadows human rights concerns.
The controversy escalated following the alleged torture of Eddie Mutwe, Wine’s bodyguard and NUP activist.
Museveni’s son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, admitted to detaining Mutwe, who later appeared in court with signs of torture.
Wine vowed to prioritize civil rights and anti-corruption measures if elected.
