Besigye Donates Cash to Bobi Wine as Presidential Polls Draw Near

Kampala, Uganda — Jailed veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye has made a financial contribution to the presidential campaign of National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, as the country heads into the January 15 general elections.

The donation was delivered on Kyagulanyi’s behalf during prayers held at Besigye’s home in Kasangati. The money, contained in an envelope with an undisclosed amount, was handed over by Besigye’s wife, Dr. Winnie Byanyima.

Besigye’s portrait during prayers for political prisoners on Sunday at his home in Kasangati.

Erias Lukwago, Winnie Byanyima, Bobi Wine and his wife, Barbie, and NUP SG David Lewis Rubongoya attended the prayers.

Confirmation of the contribution was made by one of Kyagulanyi’s lawyers, Saasi Marvin, who said the funds were sent by Besigye despite his continued detention.

“From where he is in jail, Dr. Kizza Besigye has made a big financial contribution to President Bobi Wine’s presidential campaign. It has been delivered to him today here at Dr. Besigye’s home by his wife, Dr. Winnie Byanyima,” Saasi said.

Presidential campaigns have been ongoing for the past three months, with candidates traversing the country and incurring heavy logistical and mobilisation costs. Political analysts say campaign financing has become a critical factor in Uganda’s high-stakes elections.

The donation is also being viewed as a symbolic show of unity within the opposition, as Besigye and Kyagulanyi represent different generations of resistance politics in Uganda.

Neither Kyagulanyi nor Besigye’s family disclosed the exact amount donated.

Ugandans head to the polls on January 15 to elect a president, members of parliament, and local government leaders.