Kampala, Uganda – In a significant shift for Uganda’s political landscape, stringent security measures have been established for National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, for the upcoming 2026 presidential campaigns.
According to reliable sources, the Special Forces Command (SFC), an elite unit responsible for protecting the President and other high-level officials, has taken over Kyagulanyi’s security detail. This follows his formal declaration as a presidential candidate.
A key aspect of the new arrangement is the reported impending release of several members of Kyagulanyi’s former security team, including Eddie Mutwe and Achileo Kivumbi, from Luzira Prison in early February 2026. Sources indicate this move is intended to allow the SFC commandos assigned to guard the opposition leader to operate without interference.
Streamlined and Controlled Security
The SFC has reportedly introduced a strict set of protocols to govern the campaign’s movements and public appearances. Kyagulanyi has been asked to appoint a single aide who will act as the primary liaison with the SFC team. This aide will work directly with the commandos to coordinate the campaign’s logistics.
Gone are the days of large, informal convoys. The SFC has limited the number of vehicles permitted to follow the presidential candidate. This measure is designed to prevent security compromises that could arise from an unwieldy motorcade, a common feature during Kyagulanyi’s previous campaigns.
SFC to Have Final Say on Public Interaction
Perhaps the most notable changes involve the candidate’s direct interaction with supporters. The SFC will have the final decision on all locations where Kyagulanyi’s convoy will stop to address crowds. Furthermore, the commandos will strictly enforce a rule against the NUP leader unnecessarily putting his head out of the vehicle window to wave at supporters—a signature gesture in his past campaigns.
For the safety of the candidate, no foot soldiers or unauthorized persons will be allowed near his moving vehicle.
Pre-Approved Campaign Schedule
The new security protocol also mandates advance planning. Before embarking on any campaign trail, Bobi Wine’s team must avail his detailed program to the SFC. This will allow the commandos to conduct pre-emptive security assessments and make necessary safety arrangements at all planned destinations.
This comprehensive takeover of security details marks a new chapter in Uganda’s often tense electoral process, signaling a formal state-managed security approach for a leading opposition figure.
