KAMPALA, Uganda — Detained opposition veteran Dr. Kizza Besigye has sent financial support to National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in a rare show of unity among opposition leaders ahead of Uganda’s Jan. 15, 2026, presidential election.
The undisclosed amount of money was handed to Bobi Wine on Sunday during a prayer gathering at Besigye’s home in Kasangati, on the outskirts of Kampala. The prayers were hosted by Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, and brought together opposition leaders, families of political prisoners, religious leaders and supporters.
Byanyima said the money came directly from Besigye, who is currently detained at Luzira prison and has no source of income.
“He is not earning anything. He is not working. But he has friends,” Byanyima told the gathering. “He asked that this money be raised and given to Bobi Wine to help with the final push.”
Byanyima had visited Besigye in prison on Friday, Jan. 9, where she received his message and contribution. Besigye also wished Bobi Wine success, saying he understands the scale of the challenge he faces against President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly 40 years.
“This is the contribution he sent you from jail,” Byanyima said. “He knows what you are up against.”
Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate, has been in detention since November 2024. He was charged with treason in February 2025, an offense that carries the death penalty under Ugandan law. Courts have repeatedly denied him bail.
The Sunday prayer meeting focused on seeking divine intervention for Besigye and other political prisoners. Families of detainees shared testimonies of hardship and resilience as the country approaches the highly contested election.
Religious leaders, including Rev. Father Kabogoza and Rev. Bob Musamali, led prayers calling for justice, the release of political prisoners and peaceful elections. They urged Ugandans to remain hopeful despite growing political tension.
Bobi Wine described the gathering as “very special” and thanked Byanyima for standing firm during difficult times. He praised families of political prisoners for continuing to speak out despite intimidation.
A key moment came when Byanyima relayed Besigye’s prison message, combining encouragement with the financial support for Bobi Wine’s campaign. The gesture highlighted growing unity among opposition figures who were once seen as rivals.
“In unity, we shall overcome every obstacle on our path to freedom,” Bobi Wine told supporters.
In return, Bobi Wine presented Byanyima with a portrait of Besigye. The artwork carried a message reading: “Change is inevitable. Sooner or later, Ugandans will take charge of their destiny and rebuild their country in a way that ensures equal opportunity for everyone.”
Bobi Wine said he remains hopeful that Besigye will one day walk free.
“I have no doubt in my mind that we are going to overcome,” he said. “One day, we shall meet for Thanksgiving to welcome Doctor Besigye.”
Bobi Wine’s campaign has faced major financial and political challenges. Recent changes to the Political Parties and Organizations Act have blocked NUP from accessing funds from the Inter-Party Organization for Dialogue (IPOD). The party has boycotted IPOD meetings, arguing the platform legitimizes Museveni’s rule.
Despite the restrictions, Bobi Wine continues to draw large crowds, especially young people frustrated by unemployment, police brutality and political repression.
The election buildup has been marked by arrests, disruptions of opposition activities and reports of violence. Rights groups have warned of possible unrest, while the Uganda Communications Commission has cautioned against election misinformation.
