Babu Owino shares details of call with Bobi Wine ahead of Uganda’s crucial polls

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has revealed details of a recent phone conversation with Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, as Uganda prepares to head to the ballot in a tightly contested general election.

Speaking during a televised interview on Wednesday night, Owino said he spoke with Bobi Wine several days before polling day to encourage him amid what he described as growing pressure and intimidation from the Ugandan state. 

The Kenyan lawmaker noted that the opposition leader was facing significant obstacles as he campaigned against long-serving President Yoweri Museveni.

Owino, who is a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), expressed concern over what he termed as restrictions on Bobi Wine’s political activities, saying the conditions under which the opposition candidate was campaigning raised serious questions about the fairness of the electoral process. 

According to the MP, Bobi Wine has been forced to move with heavy security, including wearing bulletproof vests at public events, due to persistent threats to his safety. 

Owino said the situation painted a grim picture of Uganda’s political environment during an election period that should ideally be free and open.

The Kenyan legislator further criticised what he described as the harassment of opposition supporters and disruptions of campaign activities, arguing that such actions undermine democratic principles. 

He said elections should provide a level playing field for all candidates, regardless of their political standing.

Owino also commented on the Ugandan government’s decision to impose a nationwide internet shutdown days before the election. 

Authorities in Uganda said the move was meant to curb misinformation and protect the integrity of the electoral process. 

However, critics and human rights organisations have condemned the blackout, warning that it limits access to information and reduces transparency during a critical democratic exercise.

The Embakasi East MP said the shutdown was a clear indicator of fear within the ruling establishment, noting that access to information plays a key role in modern elections. 

He argued that restricting communication platforms during voting periods erodes public trust and raises suspicion over the credibility of the process.

During the interview, Owino expressed confidence in Bobi Wine’s political future, describing him as a bold and youthful leader whose message resonates strongly with Uganda’s younger population. 

He said he encouraged Bobi Wine to remain steadfast, regardless of the outcome of the election.

The lawmaker also used a metaphor to describe political power, suggesting that leadership often gravitates towards those who demonstrate courage and energy. 

He said Uganda’s political landscape was gradually shifting, driven by a growing population of young voters demanding change.

Ugandans are scheduled to vote on Thursday, January 15, in an election that will determine whether President Museveni extends his decades-long rule or whether the opposition can pull off a historic upset. 

According to electoral authorities, more than 21 million registered voters are expected to participate.

The election has attracted regional and international attention due to concerns over political freedoms, security, and the conduct of state institutions. 

Owino said Kenya and the wider East African region have a stake in Uganda’s stability and democratic progress. 

He called for peaceful elections and respect for the will of the Ugandan people, regardless of the outcome.