National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Bobi Wine has marked Father’s Day with a deeply personal message reflecting on fatherhood, discipline, sacrifice, and the influence of his late father, J.W. Ssentamu, whom he described as a principled and selfless parent.
In a reflective post shared on Sunday, Bobi Wine extended his message to all fathers and father-figures, praising those who consistently provide and sacrifice for their families.
“Wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all fathers and father-figures out there who show up and sacrifice unconditionally for the good of their families,” he wrote.
He emphasized that fatherhood extends beyond biological ties or financial provision, describing it as a role rooted in moral upbringing and character formation.
“Fatherhood goes beyond just biology and providing. It is about nurturing character. It's about teaching humility, honour and respect for oneself and for others. It's about raising children with values that will positively shape the society that their own children will inherit tomorrow,” he added.
The opposition leader said that as he grows older, he has developed a deeper appreciation for his father, J.W. Ssentamu, acknowledging that he now understands the challenges he faced while raising a large family under difficult circumstances.
“As I grow older, I respect Mzee J. W. Ssentamu more, and yes, now I understand him even more,” he noted.
Bobi Wine went on to recall his father’s sacrifices, describing him as a man who endured political persecution and financial hardship while prioritizing the education of his children.
He said Ssentamu frequently faced imprisonment due to his opposition to past regimes, yet remained committed to family responsibilities.
“It’s until I grew up and became a father that I came to understand and appreciate what you went through to raise and educate all of us,” he wrote.
He further claimed that his father, despite having no luxury, managed to educate 35 children up to university level, while maintaining a strict discipline system and a strong moral code.
“Always in and out of prison, not because you were a criminal, but because you opposed the dictatorships that came before the current one. I do not remember you ever driving a new car because you had to educate 35 of us up to University. The most hardworking guy I have ever known,” he stated.
He also praised his father’s philosophy on education and discipline, quoting him in Luganda: “Baana bange, nze ek'obusika kyembawa kwe'kusoma” loosely translated as “My children, the inheritance I give you is education.”
Bobi Wine described J.W. Ssentamu as both a strict disciplinarian and a loving father who balanced toughness with wisdom and affection.
He also expressed gratitude for the moral lessons, childhood memories, and values instilled in him.
He highlighted moments such as riding on his father’s motorcycle and listening to traditional folk stories, as well as lessons in discipline and respect.
He further commended his father for respecting his mother and maintaining family unity.
“I am so proud to have your blood running in my veins. I can only spend my lifetime trying to fit in your big shoes and keeping your legacy,” he concluded.