Lira City was thrown into chaos last night after police stormed a hotel where opposition leader and National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, was reportedly staying. The dramatic operation, which unfolded under the cover of darkness, involved heavy deployment of security forces and the use of tear gas, leaving residents in shock and confusion.
Eyewitnesses reported that the police surrounded the hotel shortly after 10 p.m., blocking all entry and exit points. Moments later, loud bangs and tear gas canisters filled the air as officers allegedly attempted to disperse crowds that had gathered outside to catch a glimpse of the musician-turned-politician.
“People were running everywhere. You could hear tear gas being fired, and many were choking and screaming,” said one witness who was at the scene.
Videos circulating on social media show police trucks and armed officers positioned around the hotel, with flashes of light and smoke visible in the background. The footage has since gone viral, sparking outrage among NUP supporters and human rights activists.
According to local reports, Bobi Wine had earlier arrived in Lira City as part of his nationwide mobilization tour, where he was expected to meet supporters and address several community gatherings. However, authorities allegedly claimed that his events were unauthorized, citing public order concerns.
In a post shared online, Bobi Wine condemned the late-night raid, calling it an act of “intimidation and political persecution.” He accused the police of disrupting his peaceful mobilization efforts and targeting his supporters without cause.
“We came to Lira to meet our people peacefully, but as always, the regime has responded with violence and tear gas,” Bobi Wine wrote.
Police officials, however, have not yet released a formal statement on the incident. Sources within the force said the operation was intended to “maintain order” and prevent “illegal gatherings” that could lead to unrest.
The incident has sparked heated debate across Uganda, with many citizens expressing anger at what they see as continued suppression of political opposition. Videos under the hashtag #LiraCityRaid are trending across multiple platforms, drawing both local and international attention.
By morning, calm had been restored in Lira City, though several people were reportedly arrested during the chaos. NUP leaders have vowed to continue their mobilization despite what they describe as ongoing harassment.
The late-night raid adds to a growing list of confrontations between Bobi Wine’s team and law enforcement during his political tours — a reminder of Uganda’s tense political climate as the country inches closer to another election season.
