Mixed Signals From Government Over Potential Treason Charges Against Bobi Wine ‎ -

‎The legal status of Robert Kyagulanyi, president of the National Unity Platform (NUP), remains unclear following contradictory statements from high-ranking government officials regarding potential treason charges.

‎The confusion arose after the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Okello Oryem, suggested that Kyagulanyi was awaiting treason charges.

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‎The minister’s comments were made in response to calls for Uganda’s Ambassador in Brussels to address international concerns about alleged political persecution by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.

‎However, Uganda Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke swiftly contradicted the statement, asserting that no treason investigations have been sanctioned.

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‎We have no charges of treason preferred on Hon. Kyagulanyi,” Kituuma told reporters. “If any, we shall tell you here. There are not any investigations that I know of happening.”

‎Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has remained in hiding, citing credible fears for his safety. His residence has been under heavy security since January 15, following a tense general election in which he was declared runner-up to incumbent President Museveni.

‎While police have “debunked” the notion of new legal proceedings, the mere suggestion of treason carries historical weight for the opposition leader.

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‎In 2018, Kyagulanyi was charged with treason following an incident in Arua, when he was accused of leading an attack on the presidential convoy that resulted in a shattered windscreen.

‎The discrepancy between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Uganda Police leaves both the public and international observers questioning whether the minister’s remarks were a premature disclosure of intent, a communication error, or a diplomatic misstep — leaving Kyagulanyi’s legal status uncertain for the time being.