As Uganda marked its 63rd Independence Day on October 9, 2025, National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, lambasted government festivities as a ‘mockery’ of true freedom. He highlighted persistent issues like abductions, electoral interference, and economic hardships, urging citizens to reclaim the nation’s sovereignty through the 2026 polls. Recent incidents, including military blockades of opposition rallies in Iganga and Mayuge, underscore escalating tensions ahead of elections. Supporters rallied in Busoga, demanding poverty alleviation via industrialization and school feeding programs. EditorPro Review: Bobi Wine’s critique resonates deeply in a nation grappling with authoritarian drift, where Human Rights Watch reports ongoing clampdowns on dissent. This rhetoric could galvanize youth turnout, but risks provoking further crackdowns. Uganda’s path to democracy hinges on inclusive dialogue; ignoring opposition voices only deepens divisions. A vibrant civil society, not pompous parades, will restore the independence spirit.
Source: Daily Monitor