Bobi Wine Flees to US, Seeks Global Action Against Uganda Government
Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine has resurfaced in the United States after days of uncertainty over his whereabouts, revealing he fled his country over fears for his life.
Wine, who leads the National Unity Platform, appeared in Washington, D.C., where he said he had already begun engaging international stakeholders following his discreet exit from Uganda.
Speaking on his decision to leave, the opposition figure said he was being targeted by security forces. He alleged that the military was pursuing him and that remaining in the country posed a serious threat to his safety.
His departure comes after months of heightened political tension following Uganda’s disputed presidential election earlier this year. Wine had reportedly been in hiding, with security forces surrounding his residence and restricting his movements.
The politician said his visit to the U.S. is part of a broader strategy to rally international pressure against the administration of President Yoweri Museveni, whom he accused of long-standing repression.
Wine called on global actors, including the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, to impose sanctions on Ugandan authorities, alleging human rights abuses and suppression of dissent.
He also pointed to threats from Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the president’s son, whose social media posts have drawn criticism for inflammatory rhetoric against opposition figures.
Despite the risks, Wine maintained that his stay abroad is temporary. He said his mission is to counter what he described as misinformation about Uganda and to engage policymakers capable of influencing change.
“I will be meeting key decision-makers and going wherever necessary to challenge the narrative about my country,” he said.
Wine added that he intends to return to Uganda, insisting that his political struggle remains rooted at home, even as he seeks international backing.