National Unity Platform (NUP) president Bobi Wine also known as Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has reflected on his political awakening and evolving views on leadership during a public conversation held at Columbia University in New York, where he was interviewed by Anselm Besigye, the son of veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye.
Speaking at the Institute of African Studies during a fireside chat with students, faculty, and activists, Bobi Wine recounted his earlier admiration for Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, saying he once viewed him as a role model in leadership and governance.
“I once loved Museveni like your father did,” Bobi Wine said, referring to Kizza Besigye’s long-standing opposition to the Ugandan president.
He added that during his formative years, he read Museveni’s writings and was inspired by his revolutionary background and early promises of democratic governance.
However, he noted that his perspective changed over time as he became more politically engaged.
According to him, prolonged leadership without electoral renewal has undermined democratic principles and eroded public trust in governance systems.
Bobi Wine argued that the sidelining of competitive elections weakens institutions and limits accountability.
He warned that when leaders remain in power beyond their mandate through undemocratic means, it creates a governance crisis that affects both citizens and future generations.
The opposition leader emphasized the importance of civic participation and political accountability, calling on young people and international observers to remain engaged in defending democratic space across Africa.
He framed Uganda’s political situation as part of a broader continental struggle where governance systems are increasingly under pressure.
The discussion formed part of a broader academic engagement at Columbia University focused on the state of democracy in Uganda and other countries where political freedoms are perceived to be shrinking.
Bobi Wine highlighted that such platforms provide an opportunity to share experiences and build global awareness around democratic governance challenges.
In a statement shared ahead of the event, Bobi Wine said the conversation aimed to deepen understanding of democratic struggles in Uganda and beyond.
He also announced that the session would be streamed live via his TikTok account, allowing wider public participation.
The engagement adds to Bobi Wine’s ongoing international advocacy efforts as he continues to position himself as a key voice in Uganda’s opposition politics.