“Leave Him Alone” Museveni Blocks Son’s Order to Arrest Bobi Wine
A quiet but serious power struggle is unfolding within Uganda’s top leadership. President Yoweri Museveni has reportedly blocked a plan by his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to arrest opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine. The disagreement has sparked tension in security circles and exposed deep divisions in the government ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The situation started when Gen. Muhoozi, who serves as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), made a direct phone call to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abas Byakagaba. In a commanding tone, Muhoozi instructed him to arrest Bobi Wine immediately. This came shortly after some of Bobi Wine’s bodyguards had already been detained, which triggered protests in parts of Kampala.
Although the police chief initially agreed, he chose to consult President Museveni before taking any action. During their talk, Museveni reportedly asked a key question: “What has Bobi Wine done?” When the IGP admitted there was no clear offense, Museveni responded firmly, “Don’t touch Bobi Wine without a reason!”
That firm instruction stopped the arrest from happening. However, Gen. Muhoozi was reportedly upset by the decision and tried again—this time ordering military police to carry out the arrest. But they also double-checked with the IGP and, out of respect for President Museveni as the Commander-in-Chief, refused to act.
This standoff reveals growing friction within the ruling structure. Gen. Muhoozi, who is widely believed to have political ambitions, appears frustrated with what he sees as a soft approach toward Bobi Wine. He views the opposition leader as a rising threat to the political establishment.
President Museveni, however, is treading carefully. Past arrests of political figures—such as Bobi Wine’s violent arrest in Luuka in 2020 and Dr. Kizza Besigye’s detainment—drew heavy international criticism. It seems Museveni is now trying to avoid repeating those controversial moves as the world keeps a close eye on Uganda’s politics.
Meanwhile, Bobi Wine has not responded publicly to the latest events. He continues to travel the country, meeting supporters and building momentum ahead of the 2026 elections.
This clash between father and son, and between different arms of the security forces, is more than just a personal dispute. It highlights the fragile balance of power in Uganda and could play a major role in shaping the country’s political future. Many Ugandans are watching closely, waiting to see how this power struggle unfolds
