National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, has come out in support of NUP prisoners who pleaded guilty to terrorism charges.
At a press briefing on Monday, October 21, 2024, Wine urged his followers not to criticize these prisoners, alleging they were coerced and intimidated into pleading guilty in exchange for freedom.
“We don’t criticize you for weakening because we know what you’re going through,” Wine said.
“We understand people like Sanya who are coerced and intimidated that unless they wear NRM t-shirts and praise Gen. Museveni, they won’t get their freedom.”
He emphasized that these prisoners are forced to say things they don’t believe in.Wine likened pleading guilty to terrorism to accepting a curse.
“Accepting that you’re a terrorist is like accepting a curse on yourself,” he said.
Despite this, Wine expressed understanding if those still in prison choose to plead guilty, but promised to hold in high honor those who refuse.This development comes after NUP’s Olivia Lutaaya pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition, joining co-accused Paul Muwanguzi, Siraj Obalai and Joseph Muganza.
NUP accuses State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, of brokering these guilty pleas.Barugahara responded, stating that despite his efforts to free incarcerated NUP youth, their leaders and supporters have unfairly criticized him. He pledged to continue securing freedom for youth allegedly misled by NUP leadership.
Terrorism Charges and Their Implications
Sixteen NUP supporters face the death penalty after pleading guilty to terrorism charges, according to a legal expert . The group of 32 NUP supporters was charged with possession of ammunition, with prosecution alleging they had 13 explosive devices between November 2020 and May 2021.
Unlawful possession of ammunition carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment under Section 31 of the Firearms Act.
Reactions and Controversies
Kyagulanyi paid tribute to prisoners refusing to plead guilty to crimes they didn’t commit, warning that accepting such charges could have severe consequences. The controversy surrounding these guilty pleas highlights tensions between NUP and the government.
Bobi Wine’s statement emphasizes the need for solidarity with imprisoned NUP supporters, while Barugahara’s response underscores the government’s stance on rehabilitating youth.
