Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has shared insights into his recent phone conversation with Uganda’s opposition leader, Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine.
During an interview on the evening of January 14, 2026, Owino disclosed that he had reached out to Bobi just three days prior to offer encouragement as Uganda prepared for its elections on January 15, 2026.
The Orange Democratic Movement lawmaker highlighted the intense challenges Bobi faces under the current regime of President Yoweri Museveni. He vividly described how Bobi must campaign while donning a bulletproof vest, a necessity due to the oppressive tactics employed by Ugandan police.
“I spoke to Bobi Wine three days ago. We discussed the dire situation he is enduring in Uganda. This is not a typical campaign season when a potential presidential candidate must wear bulletproofs and navigate police obstacles to reach voters; such actions blatantly violate electoral laws,” Owino emphasized.
Owino expressed unwavering confidence in Bobi’s chances of success, likening the pursuit of power to a beautiful young woman who is drawn to bold and youthful contenders rather than to those who are older and complacent.
“I assured Bobi that he is on the right path. Despite Museveni’s internet shutdown, which underscores the regime’s desperation, I firmly believe that this election favors him. I told Bobi that power, much like a beautiful lady, gravitates towards the young and courageous, not the old and indifferent. Bobi has a promising future, and I am confident he will emerge victorious in this presidential race,” he stated.
As Ugandans prepare to cast their votes on January 15, they will do so under the shadow of a nationwide internet blackout. Approximately 21.6 million registered voters will determine whether to extend President Museveni’s 40-year reign or to usher in a new leadership.
Just days before the election, the government implemented a sweeping internet shutdown, including social media and messaging platforms, citing the need to prevent “misinformation” and “electoral fraud.” However, human rights organizations have condemned this action as a serious threat to electoral transparency.
