Bobi Wine’s Arua Campaign Marred by Route Disputes, Stone-Throwing, and Damaged Police Vehicles
ARUA – A campaign rally for National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in Arua District and City on Wednesday was marked by dramatic detours, a covert motorcycle ride by the candidate, and violent incidents that left multiple police vehicles damaged.
The day’s events began at Okazara Primary School grounds in Vurra Sub-County, where Kyagulanyi was unable to address a planned rally. He then proceeded with his team, making brief stopovers to wave at supporters at Ovisoni Trading Centre and Onduparaka Trading Centre.
Tensions escalated at Onduparaka when the candidate attempted to take a direct route to the City Centre that authorities stated was not part of the pre-agreed plan. Police blocked his convoy, preventing access.
In a surprising turn, Kyagulanyi then made a U-turn, abandoned his vehicle, and boarded a numberless boda boda (motorcycle taxi). Covering his face with a helmet, he traveled through the City Centre to reach the NUP offices in Oli Central Division. There, he addressed supporters from the rooftop of an unfinished building.
Despite the earlier agreement, the candidate and a large, rowdy crowd subsequently proceeded via Rhino Camp Road to the final campaign venue at Inzikuru Stadium, Barifa.
The situation turned violent when some supporters began throwing stones at police officers. According to police records, four vehicles were damaged in the attacks:
· Vehicle UP 03271 was damaged at 16:59 hours.
· Vehicle UP M/V 03346 was damaged at 17:34 hours.
· Vehicle UP M/V 00173 was damaged at 17:35 hours.
· Vehicle UP M/V 7697 was also damaged.
Separate cases of malicious damage have been opened at Arua Central Police Station (CPS) for each incident.
Police reported that they are analyzing CCTV footage from the area to identify the perpetrators. As a result of this analysis, 32 suspects have so far been arrested and are currently detained at Arua CPS pending further investigation. Efforts to locate other individuals involved are ongoing.
The damaged vehicles are scheduled for inspection by the Inspector of Motor Vehicles, and all necessary documentation from the scene has been completed by the scene of crime officer. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incidents and that the campaign event ultimately concluded.
In a statement, police reiterated their call for all political actors and their supporters to adhere to agreed-upon campaign guidelines, avoid acts of hooliganism, and refrain from behavior that could lead to accidents, injuries, or disruption of public order.
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