Government has said National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine, is free to move and return to his home, dismissing claims that he is being hunted.
The minister for Information and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, said the continued deployment of security personnel at Kyagulanyi’s home in Magere is purely for surveillance purposes and not meant to restrict his movement.
Baryomunsi told journalists at the Uganda Media Centre today that security agencies are monitoring Magere to prevent any planned demonstrations that could threaten public order.
“Bobi Wine is not wanted by the state. He is free to move and go back to his home. The only reason security remains deployed is to monitor any intended plans related to demonstrations,” Baryomunsi said.
He accused Kyagulanyi of seeking public sympathy locally and internationally, adding that the government is not worried by such efforts.
“We are aware that Kyagulanyi is looking for public sympathy and the attention of the international community, but we are not worried. No one will be allowed to destabilise the peace of this country,” Baryomunsi said.
Kyagulanyi has in recent days claimed that security forces surrounded his home and restricted access following the general elections, a situation his party describes as an illegal house arrest.
The deployment has drawn criticism from opposition figures and rights groups, who argue that it violates his constitutional rights.
Baryomunsi warned that post election demonstrations have in the past destabilised countries and led to the loss of peace and democratic gains.
“I should inform the public that many countries have lost their democracy and peace because of post election demonstrations by citizens over electoral outcomes,” he said, citing Sudan and Jamaica among examples.
On the issue of the internet shutdown during the election period, Baryomunsi said the decision was deliberate and aimed at preventing violence and instability.
He said security agencies assessed that social media and the internet would act as a catalyst for protests following the election results.
“This was a deliberate move to combat gangs that wanted to protest and create instability. The National Unity Platform (NUP) slogan of ‘protest vote’ and the hate speech witnessed during campaigns compelled national security to be more vigilant,” Baryomunsi said.
He added that intelligence reports indicated that online platforms were likely to be used to mobilise protests over the election outcome.
The minister also confirmed countrywide arrests of people suspected to be involved in criminal activities, including some political leaders.
He said Butambala MP Muwanga Kivumbi, who is in detention, was at the centre of events linked to the killing of seven people by police on January 15. Police have previously said the deaths occurred during enforcement operations against violent protests.
On the health of Dr Kizza Besigye, Baryomunsi dismissed reports that he is seriously ill.
“Dr Besigye had a minor illness, contrary to what some people are saying. He is not in bad health,” Baryomunsi said.
