The National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi, has strongly dismissed claims by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abbas Byakagaba that NUP supporters routinely attack security officers, provoking the use of tear gas and live bullets.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Kyagulanyi, who is better known by his professional name Bobi Wine, described the IGP’s remarks as “false and misleading,” insisting that security forces have repeatedly used excessive force against his supporters even when they were peacefully assembled.
“The Inspector General of Police is not being truthful,” Kyagulanyi said. “On numerous occasions during my campaigns, police have beaten and dispersed our supporters who were simply exercising their rights. These are people gathering peacefully, yet they are met with force.”
Byakagaba had earlier stated that security personnel only deploy tear gas or live rounds in response to attacks from rowdy crowds, framing such actions as self-defense.
Kyagulanyi countered that these claims are being used to justify unlawful force against opposition supporters.
He further asserted that any stone-throwing incidents would not involve NUP supporters, noting that his mobilization teams consistently urge the public to remain calm and avoid violence.
“Our people are encouraged to keep the peace at all times,” he said. “If stones were thrown, those individuals would not be acting on behalf of NUP.”
Kyagulanyi accused police leadership of promoting hostile narratives aimed at criminalizing opposition activities ahead of the 2026 polls.
He called on security agencies to respect citizens’ rights and uphold professionalism in managing political events.
As the campaign season intensifies, concerns over the relationship between security agencies and opposition groups continue to grow, with civil society urging authorities to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.
