UgandaToday: Police Issues Update About Kyagulanyi’s Arua Campaign Draws Enthusiastic Crowds, Chaos, and Arrests
Arua, Uganda — November 20, 2025:
The National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential campaign in Arua District and Arua City on Wednesday was marked by dramatic scenes, crowd excitement, clashes with security, and subsequent arrests, according to an official police update issued by SSP Josephine Angucia, PRO West Nile Region.
NUP presidential candidate Hon. Robert Sentamu Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, began his day at Okazara Primary School grounds in Vurra Sub-County, Arua District. Although he was unable to address supporters there, his entry into the area drew large crowds that followed his convoy throughout the day.
From Okazara, Bobi Wine proceeded to Ovisoni Trading Centre, where he waved to supporters lining the roadside. The campaign trail then took him through Giligili in Ayivu West Division before heading to Ediofe Mission and later Onduparaka Trading Centre, where crowds again swelled around him.
Disagreement Over Campaign Route
At Onduparaka Trading Centre, Kyagulanyi reportedly attempted to access Arua City Centre through a route that police say had not been agreed upon during prior coordination meetings. Security personnel blocked him from proceeding, prompting him to make a U-turn.
Moments later, in an unexpected turn of events, Kyagulanyi reportedly boarded a numberless boda boda, concealed his face with a motorcycle helmet, and maneuvered through the City Centre. He resurfaced at the NUP offices in Oli Central Division, where he climbed to the rooftop of an unfinished building and addressed cheering supporters.
Despite police directives, the NUP candidate continued with a large and energetic procession via Rhino Camp Road toward Inzikuru Stadium in Barifa, where the main rally was scheduled.
Stone-Throwing, Damaged Police Vehicles & Arrests
What started as a spirited campaign procession briefly descended into chaos as some supporters allegedly threw stones at police vehicles along the route. According to the police report, four patrol vehicles were damaged:
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UP 03271 at 16:59hrs
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UP 03346 at 17:34hrs
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UP 00173 at 17:35hrs
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UP 7697 later that evening
All incidents were duly registered in the Arua CPS Station Diary.
Police say 32 suspects have so far been arrested, identified through ongoing CCTV analysis, and are currently detained at Arua CPS. Cases of malicious damage have been opened, each with separate reference numbers, while the damaged vehicles await inspection by the Inspector of Motor Vehicles.
No Injuries Reported
Despite the tense moments, police confirmed that no injuries were recorded, and the day’s campaign events concluded without further incident. The scene of crime officer has already completed necessary documentation, and efforts to trace additional suspects remain underway.
Police Appeal for Calm
In her statement, SSP Josephine Angucia urged all political actors to adhere to campaign guidelines and avoid actions that could escalate into violence or compromise public safety.
“We continue to urge political actors and their supporters to adhere to campaign guidelines, avoid acts of hooliganism, and refrain from behavior that could lead to accidents, injuries, loss of life, or disruption of other lawful activities,” she said.
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