Kyagulanyi has vowed to continue his campaign trail despite the arrest of members of his campaign team in Mbarara city on Friday. (Credit: Richard Sanya)

National Unity Platform (NUP) 2026 presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has vowed to continue his campaign trail despite the arrest of members of his campaign team in Mbarara city on Friday.

The musician-turned-politician also known as Bobi Wine is expected to hold rallies in Rwampara and Ntungamo districts on Saturday (November 8) according to the Electoral Commission campaign programme.

In Mbarara, Police blocked Kyagulanyi’s planned second rally in Bwizibwera and arrested part of his team.

Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma said the arrests targeted individuals with prior criminal records who had previously assaulted officers, damaged government property, and obstructed the Police during their duties. 

“The campaign trail for presidential candidates has largely remained peaceful. However, as previously communicated, a few individuals have persistently provoked Police and engaged in acts of violence against officers. Such conduct is unacceptable and will have consequences,” Kituuma said.

He outlined a series of incidents involving NUP supporters:

▪️ In Busia district, suspects traveling in a NUP convoy assaulted an officer, a case filed under CRB 1038/2025.

▪️ On October 3, during NUP events in Mayuge district, an officer was attacked, seriously injured, and had his phone stolen (Mayuge CRB 797/2025).

▪️ On October 8, at Bikoma Primary School in Kyankwanzi, a detective constable was assaulted, though the main suspect escaped before a case could be opened.

▪️ On October 21, in Kisiita town council in Kakumiro, the windshield of a police vehicle was damaged.

▪️ On October 28, during transit from Lira city to Alebtong district, officers behind a NUP convoy were attacked; their vehicle tires punctured and property stolen.

▪️ On October 29, in Abim district, NUP candidate bodyguards assaulted Edibu Emmanuel, who was hospitalized.

▪️ On November 5, in Kiruhura district, a journalist from Tayari Television was assaulted.

Kituuma said the operation in Mbarara was aimed at maintaining order and ensuring compliance with campaign guidelines. 

“We are not stopping anyone from campaigning. However, all activities must follow the agreed routes and avoid disrupting public peace.”