Ask Onix
Ugandan pop star turns political challenger
Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, will face President Yoweri Museveni in Uganda's presidential election on 15 January, marking his second bid to unseat the long-time leader. The 43-year-old musician and opposition figure has galvanized young voters with his anti-establishment message, despite facing arrests, violence, and legal obstacles.
From slums to political stage
Born in Kampala's Kamwokya slum, Wine adopted the moniker "ghetto president" to reflect his roots and advocacy for youth unemployment and human rights. His music, blending reggae, Afrobeats, and traditional Ugandan rhythms, propelled him to fame under the "edutainment" banner-songs that entertain while educating. After earning a diploma in music and drama from Makerere University, he built a studio in Kamwokya and starred in local plays alongside his wife, Barbara Itungo.
Clashes with the establishment
Wine's pivot to politics in 2017 began with a landslide by-election victory in Kyadondo-East, where he ran as an independent. His People Power movement, symbolized by red berets, evolved into the National Unity Platform (NUP) after legal hurdles blocked its registration. Since then, he has been arrested multiple times on charges including treason and illegal firearms possession, which critics dismiss as politically motivated. In 2018, global musicians like Coldplay's Chris Martin and Damon Albarn signed a petition demanding his release.
Violence and repression
During the 2021 campaign, security forces shot at Wine's convoy, and dozens of supporters were killed in pre-election clashes. This year, footage shows police using tear gas, water cannons, and batons against his rallies. Wine, often wearing a flak jacket, told the BBC, "I am the most connected candidate to the population. That is why I am the most hounded, harassed, and feared." Authorities deny targeting him, citing law-and-order concerns.
Military skepticism and civilian leadership
Museveni, who seized power in 1986, has warned that Wine's rallies endanger public safety-a claim the opposition denies. Wine counters that Uganda's constitution mandates civilian control over the military, though his lack of military or ministerial experience fuels doubts among some. "Uganda has been ready for a civilian leader since time immemorial," he insists.
Global attention and grassroots support
Wine's 2021 presidential bid ended with 35% of the vote to Museveni's 59%. His story later gained international exposure via the Oscar-nominated documentary Bobi Wine: The People's President. Despite the risks, his rallies draw massive crowds, with supporters forming human shields around him. "This election is about liberation," he declared. "We are asking people to protest in the ballot box."
What's next
With polls opening on 15 January, Wine's campaign focuses on corruption, wealth redistribution, and youth empowerment. Analysts question whether his grassroots appeal can overcome Museveni's entrenched power, but his defiance has already reshaped Uganda's political landscape.
