A storm of condemnation has followed a dramatic security operation at the home of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, known widely as Bobi Wine, with UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima speaking out forcefully against the incident. She described the actions of security forces during the raid as lawless and violent, placing the spotlight on the treatment of Bobi Wine’s wife, Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi.
Byanyima, an internationally recognized diplomat and the spouse of long-time opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, framed the episode as more than an isolated event. She linked it to what she sees as an escalating pattern of repression in the tense period following the recent presidential elections, saying political dissent is being met with intimidation rather than dialogue.
Reports indicate that security operatives entered the Magere residence late at night in an operation believed to be aimed at locating Bobi Wine. The opposition leader has reportedly remained out of sight since disputing the outcome of the January 15 presidential vote, a contest already clouded by controversy and accusations from his supporters.
During the operation, several household electronics — including mobile phones and computers — were allegedly taken by the security personnel. Family members say the seizure of devices left them disconnected and fearful, deepening anxiety in an already volatile political climate.
Barbara Kyagulanyi, now receiving treatment at Nsambya Hospital, has accused officers of physically assaulting her after she declined to unlock her phone. She says the confrontation turned violent and left both emotional and physical scars, intensifying concerns about the conduct of security agencies during political operations.
In her statement, Byanyima did not soften her words, condemning what she termed a brutal attack on civilians and an unjustified invasion of a private home. She argued that such forceful tactics undermine democratic values and send a chilling message to families associated with opposition politics.
She also pointed to wider developments since the election, including alleged abductions, detentions, and restrictions on communication channels. According to her, these measures reflect a militarized response to political disagreement, one that erodes trust in national institutions and damages the country’s democratic image.
Calling for immediate redress, Byanyima demanded the return of all seized property, accountability for those involved, and an end to what she described as harassment of Bobi Wine’s family. With authorities yet to issue a detailed response, the incident continues to fuel debate and heighten political tensions both locally and internationally.
