JOHANNESBURG
Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, was shot and injured during a scuffle with police outside the capital Kampala on Tuesday.
The 42-year-old pop star-turned politician was rushed to Nsambya hospital.
His party, National Unity Platform, said he was “shot in the leg and seriously injured in Bulindo, Wakiso District.”
A photo shared on social media platform X showed Wine being carried by two men as he appeared to be in much pain.
Police say he stumbled, causing injury
Police in a statement said Wine attended a Thanksgiving ceremony in the district, after which he and his team “embarked on a procession up to Bulindo town,” against their advice.
“Despite their guidance, he insisted on proceeding and closing the road, leading to police intervention to prevent the procession,” police said.
During the ensuing altercation, police said, it is alleged that Wine sustained injuries. According to the statement, police officers on site claimed “he stumbled while getting into his vehicle, causing the injury,” while his team asserted he was shot.
“An investigation will be conducted to clarify the facts,” police said.
Wine challenged 79-year-old Yoweri Museveni in the 2021 elections. He came second with 35% of the vote, as Museveni took the lead with 59%. The opposition claimed their victory had been stolen, alleging election irregularities.
Wine is seen by many as the new face of Uganda’s opposition and regarded as a major threat to Museveni, who is in power since 1986.
