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Robert Kyagulanyi and his wife Barbie in Mbarara City today morning looking for the presidential support
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Joshua Nahamya
Mbarara
National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, caused widespread traffic congestion in Mbarara City this morning as thousands of supporters, including local traders and youth, gathered along major streets to welcome his campaign motorcade. Kyagulanyi’s visit to Mbarara marks a crucial stage in his mobilization efforts across the Ankole sub-region, following campaign activities in the Buganda region and other parts of Western Uganda.
At Mbarara Central market it was massive
Campaign path and confrontations
The campaign has navigated complex political territory. After receiving a warm reception in his home districts of Butambala and Gomba, Kyagulanyi encountered significant obstacles in Rushere, Kiruhura District, the home area of the incumbent, President Yoweri Museveni.
In Kiruhura, supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), clad in party yellow, mobilized along the roads. Reports confirmed incidents of confrontation with NUP supporters at planned rally venues, including instances where the NUP team’s music systems were reportedly confiscated, preventing the candidate from holding planned public rallies in the district.
Despite heavy security presence and reported threats, the candidate continued his trail, drawing large gatherings in Kazo and later in Isingiro District—another area typically considered an NRM stronghold—where rallies were held despite intimidation from NRM supporters and visible security deployment.
Kyagulanyi supporters close in the heart of Mbarara City
Mbarara rally and security measures
Today’s event in Mbarara City was characterized by intense public mobilization. Main roads were filled with people, forcing vehicular traffic to move at a slow pace as the crowds proceeded toward the rally venue.
A heavy security presence was evidenced throughout the city. Armored vehicles were deployed on high alert, with significant numbers of police, traffic officers, and military personnel mobilized to manage the crowds.
Kyagulanyi was initially scheduled to hold his rally at the central Boma Grounds. However, security officers ultimately directed the campaign team to relocate the rally to the Mbarara High School grounds to better manage the large crowd size and ensure security provision.
Kyagulanyi's non violent supporters start to mobilize at Bulemba-Kakoba road
Looking ahead
If no changes are made to the announced itinerary, Mr. Kyagulanyi and his wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi Itungo, are set to continue their campaign trail tomorrow, Saturday, November 8, 2025, with planned rallies in Sheema, followed by visits to Bushenyi, Buhweju, and Rubirizi districts.
Torch Media Africa
