Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has urged Ugandans to turn out in large numbers to vote in Thursday’s presidential election.
In a message shared on social media, the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader called on citizens to actively participate in the polls and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Wine, who commands significant support among young voters, emphasised the importance of civic responsibility at what he described as a critical moment for the country.
“Vote. Protect. Defend,” he wrote on X, urging voters not only to cast their ballots but also to remain vigilant in ensuring the process is free and fair.
Uganda’s presidential election is scheduled for January 15, 2026, with several candidates contesting for the country’s top office.
The poll is expected to be closely watched both locally and internationally, amid heightened political competition and calls for transparency.
Wine is widely regarded as the main challenger to the long-ruling establishment and has consistently used social media platforms to mobilise supporters and communicate directly with voters.
The Electoral Commission has assured Ugandans of its readiness to conduct credible elections, while security agencies have called for peace before, during and after the voting exercise.
Incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is seeking a seventh term and is the flag-bearer of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), having led Uganda since 1986.
Other candidates include James Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC); Mugisha Gregory Muntu Oyera from the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT); Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants Party (NPP); Joseph Mabirizi of the Conservative Party (CP); Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga (Common Man’s Party) and Frank Bulira Kabinga of the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP). All eight have been officially cleared to contest the election.
On Tuesday, Wine condemned the government’s decision to impose a “temporary” nationwide internet shutdown ahead of the country’s general elections.
He warned that the move undermines democracy and threatens citizens’ freedoms at a critical moment.
The shutdown, ordered by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), took effect on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 6 pm and will remain in force until further notice—just one day before Ugandans head to the polls on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Wine, 43, expressed regret over the decision, describing it as a deliberate attempt by the ruling administration to stifle communication and transparency during the electoral process.
“The criminal regime has announced an internet shutdown throughout Uganda, beginning 6 pm today, ahead of the election on Thursday,” Wine said on X. He added defiantly, “Uganda will be free.”
The internet shutdown directive comes shortly after statements by Wine in which he warned of possible protests should the elections be perceived as unfair.
“If General Museveni rigs the election, we shall call for protests,” Wine told AFP from his home in Kampala, adding, “We've told the people not to wait for our instruction.”
The government’s move has raised alarm among observers and rights advocates, who note that internet restrictions around elections have become increasingly common in parts of the region. Such measures are often justified on security grounds but criticised for limiting freedom of expression and access to information.
Concerns intensified on Friday when satellite internet provider Starlink restricted its services in Uganda following an order from the communications regulator, further fuelling fears of a broad digital blackout.
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