ULS Warns of Constitutional Breach Over Security Siege at Bobi Wine’s Home

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has raised alarm over what it describes as unlawful confinement and constitutional violations following the heavy security deployment at the Magere residence of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe called for the immediate withdrawal of all security personnel from the Wakiso District home, arguing that the reported siege amounts to an illegal house arrest of Kyagulanyi’s family.

Kyagulanyi, who went into hiding after losing the January 15 presidential election to President Yoweri Museveni, has said security forces surrounded his residence, restricting movement and preventing his wife and other occupants from accessing basic necessities, including food.

ULS said the actions violate the 1995 Constitution, which guarantees personal liberty, freedom of movement and the right to an adequate standard of living. The law body further noted that similar deployments were prohibited by a 2021 High Court ruling.

While police have defended the operation as a security measure, ULS argued that its effect is the arbitrary deprivation of liberty and livelihood, amounting to degrading and inhuman treatment.

The legal fraternity also expressed concern over inflammatory social media statements attributed to Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, describing them as incompatible with the constitutional role of the armed forces and a dangerous escalation of impunity.

ULS warned that the developments point to a broader pattern of post-election intimidation and shrinking civic space, urging authorities to respect the rule of law and allow political competition without coercion