Entebbe, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | Supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) have been cautioned by the police as they reportedly plan processions to welcome their party president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, upon his return to Uganda.
Bobi Wine himself confirmed his return from international mobilization tours in Canada and South Africa through his social media channels.
Leaders within NUP, including several party MPs representing Kampala Metropolitan constituencies, have allegedly been coordinating efforts to gather people from various regions of the country ahead of Bobi Wine’s return. They plan to converge at Entebbe International Airport and line the route along Entebbe Road, as well as other roads leading to Bobi Wine’s residence in Magere, Wakiso, today Thursday 5, October 2021 in a procession dubbed ‘One Million March.’
During a press briefing, Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, issued a stern warning about the consequences of any unlawful processions. He emphasized that no processions would be permitted on the specified day.
“We have received credible information about NUP leaders organizing the alleged welcome celebrations of their president. They plan processions from Entebbe through Kitolo, Katabi, Kitala, Kajjansi, Kitende, Lubowa, then the city center to Magere. We warn these organizers to call off such processions which we don’t know about,” stated Onyango. He expressed concerns that such processions could disrupt public order and potentially lead to criminal activities, and as a result, significant security measures would be deployed to maintain peace.
Read Also: Police dares Bobi Wine’s NUP party to resume countrywide tours
Onyango also revealed that certain individuals, including boda-boda riders and residents from the ghetto, had declined offers to participate in these processions, even when enticed with money. Instead, they had been compensated to remain near the airport in anticipation of Thursday’s celebrations.
“They had paid them money to book lodges around areas near the airport. We urge others to reject such offers and avoid engaging in illegal activities, as they may face arrest,” cautioned Onyango.
Earlier, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, had reassured the public that the government had no intentions of interfering with Bobi Wine’s return. He emphasized that Bobi Wine would be treated like any other Ugandan citizen, and his return should not cause any alarm.
