Bobi Wine arrested. Again.
Uganda’s main opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has been arrested. Again.
The youthful singer and politician was nabbed on Wednesday by the Police and Army alongside his entire campaign team.
They were reportedly whisked towards Kalanga Police Station even though the reasons for their arrest were yet to be made public by the time this story was updated.
Bobi Wine’s arrest was confirmed via a tweet on his official handle, which was reportedly posted by an administrator.
Bobi Wine and his entire campaign team arrested in Kalangala! Media blocked.
– Admin
— BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) December 30, 2020
But Uganda Police refuted the stance instead confirming it has transported the politician to his home against his wish after restraining him from holding a rally due to the risk of spread of Covid-19.
“Please disregard false claims by NUP and other social media platforms that Hon.Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Robert has been arrested, while on his campaign trail in Kalangala District.”
“We would like to clarify the candidate was restrained for continuously holding massive rallies amidst the increased threats of coronavirus, in total disregard of the Electoral Commission and Ministry of Health guidelines.”
“He’s being transferred to his home in Magere, Kampala Part of his advance team, captured on Cctv cameras and several video footages, while deflating tyres of police motor vehicles, inciting violence, obstructing police officers on duty, violating the health and safety protocols and various traffic offences, have been arrested,” they wrote.
Bobi Wine’s arrest comes three days after one of Bobi Wine’s close aides died while on the campaign trail. The politician would later claim he was killed after a military truck ran over him.
However, the military refuted the claims and said the bodyguard had fallen from a speeding car.
Bobi Wine has emerged as the strongest challenger to President Yoweri Museveni, 76, ahead of the country’s general elections on January 14.
In November, at least 54 people died after protests erupted following Wine’s brief detention over alleged violation of Covid-19-related social distancing measures.