Bobi Wine. Credit:NUP
National Unity Platform (NUP) president Bobi Wine has called on Ugandans to remain vigilant and protect themselves against oppression as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.
Speaking during his New Year address on Thursday at NUP headquarters in Makerere-Kavule, Bobi Wine reflected on the challenges Ugandans faced in the past year under the administration of President Yoweri Museveni.
He highlighted the systematic oppression encountered by citizens for opposing the 40-year Museveni regime, stressing the need for proactive measures to safeguard the people’s political victories in the forthcoming elections.
A significant part of his address focused on the Uganda national flag, which has become a central symbol of the #ProtestVote2026 campaign.
Bobi Wine described the flag as a unifying emblem of resistance and urged citizens of good conscience to intervene if they witness anyone being attacked for carrying it.
“Our struggle remains non-violent, but there is no dignity in taking an unfair beating lying down if we can defend ourselves against it,” he stated.
Bobi Wine emphasized that such actions are supported by the Constitution of Uganda, which he said permits citizens to take necessary measures to protect themselves and their rights.
He reiterated that the movement is committed to non-violence but maintained that defending oneself against unjust treatment is both lawful and moral.
The NUP leader concluded by appealing to all Ugandans to remain united and vigilant, warning that the fight for a “Free Uganda” requires courage and active participation.
His address comes amid rising political tensions as opposition groups mobilize ahead of the 2026 elections, where public demonstrations and symbols like the national flag have become focal points of dissent.
Bobi Wine’s remarks signal a continued push for civic activism and underscore the party’s strategy of promoting political engagement while asserting the constitutional rights of citizens.