NUP Accuses Authorities of Abducting Key Members, Police Confirm Arrests

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has raised concerns over the alleged abduction of several of its senior members and election candidates along Masaka Road, accusing authorities of politically motivated intimidation. The party’s President, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu—widely known as Bobi Wine—released a statement on January 9, 2026, alleging that the NUP’s Head of Mobilisation, Habib Buwembo, along with Josephine Nakakemno (also known as Jamila Wa Bobi) and party candidate Ronald Batabaale, were abducted by unidentified individuals.

Kyagulanyi added that Robert Zziwa, another member, was abducted a day earlier. The party expressed alarm at what it describes as an ongoing pattern of abductions and enforced disappearances targeting opposition figures.

“These cowardly tactics have never saved dictators from the inevitable fall,” Kyagulanyi condemned, criticizing the ongoing suppression of political opponents. He pointed to the increasing cases of political arrests and intimidation, particularly in the lead-up to Uganda’s general elections.

Political Intimidation and Human Rights Concerns

NUP officials said the individuals were seized by unknown forces and taken to undisclosed locations, with no official charges or information provided by authorities. The party demanded the immediate release or appearance of the detained members in court, urging authorities to respect constitutional rights and international human rights standards.

The alleged abductions come amid heightened political activity and ongoing claims by opposition parties about election-related intimidation and arbitrary arrests. Human rights groups have expressed concern over the growing number of enforced disappearances in Uganda, which are often reported during political campaigns.

Police Confirmation and Contradictions

On the same day, the Uganda Police Force issued a statement confirming the arrest of Buwembo, Batabaale, and Nakakemno, though the reasons for their arrests were not provided. Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed that the three individuals are in custody and will be formally arraigned in court at a later date.

While the police’s statement partially contradicts the initial claims of abduction, the NUP has continued to demand transparency. The party insists that due process and access to legal counsel must be granted in accordance with the Ugandan Constitution and international law.

NUP’s Call for Constitutional Protections

A senior NUP official emphasized the importance of constitutional guarantees for due process and legal representation. The party called on security agencies to uphold the rule of law and cease what it describes as politically motivated crackdowns against its supporters.

The NUP, Uganda’s leading opposition party, has long accused state institutions of targeting its members through arrests and intimidation, especially during election periods. These incidents fuel growing tensions between the government and opposition parties, with both sides accusing the other of undermining democratic processes.

Families Await Clarity on Detained Individuals

As the NUP awaits further information, pressure is mounting on security agencies to clarify the status of the detained individuals. The public and human rights organizations continue to call for greater transparency and the protection of legal rights for those detained under politically charged circumstances.