In a chilling turn of events, Fred Nyanzi, the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) head of mobilization, has reportedly been abducted.
The news, shared by his brother and NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi (aka Bobi Wine), has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s political sphere.
According to Kyagulanyi, Nyanzi was seized by heavily armed men at Kubbiri Roundabout and taken to an unknown location—via a drone. Yes, a drone.
This isn’t just another headline. It’s a stark reminder of the growing tensions and alleged political repression in Uganda.
Nyanzi’s abduction follows a pattern of similar incidents involving NUP members, raising serious questions about the safety of opposition figures in the country.
What Happened?
On Monday evening, Kyagulanyi took to X to break the news.
“Our comrade and Head of Mobilisation for NUP, Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, has been abducted by heavily armed men and taken away in a drone to an unknown destination!” he wrote.
The use of a drone—if confirmed—adds a disturbing, almost cinematic twist to the story.
Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition, revealed that Nyanzi was abducted moments after a meeting at NUP headquarters in Kavule.
“He was waylaid and pulled out of his car around Kubiri,” Ssenyonyi stated. “Our legal team is doing everything possible to trace his whereabouts. The regime is clearly in panic, especially as we step up efforts to demand the release of all political prisoners.”
Our comrade and Head of Mobilisation for @NUP_Ug comrade Nyanzi Fred Ssentamu has been abducted by heavily armed men and taken away in a drone to an unknown destination! He has been abducted on gunpoint from Kubbiri Roundabout. The criminal regime is on rampage, BUT WE ARE NOT… pic.twitter.com/uar7AAZ6nW
— BOBI WINE (@HEBobiwine) February 17, 2025
A Pattern of Abductions
Nyanzi’s disappearance isn’t an isolated incident. Just hours before his abduction, Kyagulanyi reported that two other NUP members—Rashid Kinobe and Sharif Kiyemba—were also seized by men in plain clothes.
These abductions paint a troubling picture of a political climate where opposition voices are increasingly silenced.
Silence from Authorities
As of now, the police have remained tight-lipped about Nyanzi’s abduction. The lack of an official statement only fuels speculation and concern.
Where is Fred Nyanzi? Who is behind these abductions? And why is there no accountability?
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about Nyanzi or NUP. It’s about democracy, freedom, and the right to dissent.
Abductions like these strike at the heart of Uganda’s political integrity, leaving citizens and activists questioning the rule of law.
What’s Next?
The NUP legal team is working tirelessly to locate Nyanzi and secure his release.
But this case highlights a broader issue: the need for transparency, justice, and protection for all Ugandans, regardless of their political affiliations.
Fred Nyanzi’s abduction is a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that the fight for democracy is far from over—and that the cost of dissent can be dangerously high.
