Bobi Wine wins award in U.S., raises alarm over arrests, forced disappearances in Uganda

ABUJA, Nigeria — 18 April 2026 (NPA) — Ugandan opposition leader and former presidential candidate, Bobi Wine, has been recognised as a Leader in Courage and Innovation (2026) by the Renew Democracy Initiative in New York City.

Now in exile in the United States, the politician dedicated the award to Ugandans who, he said, have been killed, unlawfully detained, or forcibly disappeared in the struggle for a better nation. He noted that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

Bobi Wine also acknowledged fellow honourees, including former U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton; Chrystia Freeland, economic adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada; and U.S. Senator Mark Kelly, a former NASA astronaut, commending their contributions to democratic causes. “Uganda shall be free,” he said.

Meanwhile, the opposition figure condemned what he described as the unlawful detention of Fauzia Natabi, the wife of his personal assistant.

According to him, Natabi was held incommunicado for over 35 days after her alleged abduction before being presented at the Chief Magistrate Court in Kanyanya, where she was charged and remanded to Kasangati Prison. He described the charge—allegedly threatening a stranger via phone—as “laughable,” noting that it came shortly after authorities denied having her in custody.

Bobi Wine further raised concern over the disappearance of another activist, identified as “Gen. Blue Tick,” who was reportedly abducted on 9 April while heading to a vigil in Mutungo. He said her whereabouts remain unknown, with authorities yet to provide any explanation.

He argued that the incidents reflect a broader pattern of abductions and official denials aimed at silencing opposition voices.

“We must never give up the fight until we are all free,” he said, reiterating calls for the release of political detainees and the return of missing persons.