Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has announced that he has temporarily left Uganda after spending weeks in hiding following the disputed January 15 presidential election.

Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), said he intends to engage international allies over the coming weeks before returning to the country to continue advocating for democratic reforms.

The January presidential election was won by incumbent president Yoweri Museveni, who secured 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65% of the valid votes cast, according to official results released by Uganda’s electoral authorities.

Kyagulanyi finished second with 2,741,238 votes, equivalent to 24.72% of the vote.

Kyagulanyi has repeatedly rejected the election results, alleging widespread irregularities and intimidation during the voting process.

In a statement shared on social media, he accused the government of suppressing opposition supporters and claimed the election did not reflect the will of Ugandan voters.

“Two months ago, Museveni yet again usurped the will of the people of Uganda and declared himself president at gunpoint,” Kyagulanyi wrote.

The opposition leader said he went into hiding shortly after security forces allegedly raided his residence in Magere, near Kampala, on January 16. He claimed the raid followed the election and was part of an effort by authorities to arrest him.

According to Kyagulanyi, security agencies conducted extensive search operations, including roadblocks, vehicle checks, and raids on the homes of several opposition leaders and supporters.

He also said some police officers assigned to his campaign were arrested or dismissed during the period.

Kyagulanyi said he was able to evade arrest with assistance from members of the public, religious leaders, and individuals within the security forces.

“The people of Uganda sheltered me and protected me,” he said, crediting priests and local residents for helping him remain safe while in hiding.

Before leaving the country, Kyagulanyi appointed his deputy, Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru, as acting president of the National Unity Platform to oversee the party’s activities in his absence. The NUP has emerged in recent years as one of Uganda’s most prominent opposition movements, particularly among urban voters and younger populations.

Kyagulanyi said his trip abroad will focus on engaging international partners and raising awareness about the political situation in Uganda.

“Over the next few weeks, I will engage with our friends and allies all over the world before returning to Uganda to continue the push for freedom and democracy,” he said.

He urged supporters to remain united while the political process continues to unfold.

While the government maintains the election process was lawful and transparent, opposition figures and some observers have raised concerns about restrictions during the campaign period and the broader political environment.

It remains unclear how long Kyagulanyi plans to remain outside the country. However, he emphasized that his departure is temporary and that he intends to return to continue political mobilization in Uganda.

Fellow Ugandans and friends of Uganda!

Two months ago, Museveni yet again usurped the will of the people of Uganda and declared himself president on gunpoint. A day later, gripped by shame and fear, the military invaded my home to harm me, but I was able to evade them and go… pic.twitter.com/lGysaFL1ms

— BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) March 14, 2026