By Alex Don

Jinja, Uganda National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has officially launched his 2026 election campaign, unveiling his party’s manifesto under the theme “A New Uganda Now.”

The 38-page policy document, released at a rally in Buwenge Town Council, Jinja, highlights 11 key priorities, including restoring constitutional order, cutting wasteful government expenditure, and strengthening the health and education sectors.

Kyagulanyi told supporters that Uganda was ready for a reset.

This manifesto is our roadmap to a Uganda that works for every citizen. It is about fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all, not just a select few.

The day began with a press briefing in Kampala before the NUP leader set off for Jinja at mid-morning, accompanied by a long convoy of vehicles and bodaboda riders. Along the way, crowds lined the Kalagi–Kayunga road to cheer him on.

However, security forces blocked several major entry points into Jinja, forcing the team to take detours through Kakira’s sugarcane plantations. The delays drew criticism from NUP officials, who accused authorities of deliberate obstruction.

NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya condemned the roadblocks.

The state may try to frustrate us, but our message is reaching the people. Ugandans are tired of intimidation and ready for change.

Kyagulanyi pledged to:

Shrink government structures, saying bloated institutions drain resources needed for service delivery.

Boost health and education budgets by 15%, citing the deteriorating state of public hospitals and schools.

Enforce financial discipline, arguing that borrowing had become excessive and unsustainable.

Restore respect for the constitution and human rights, which he called “the pillars of a functioning democracy.

We can not allow corruption and misrule to define us any longer. Uganda must invest in her people first because a country that neglects its citizens is a country without a future, Kyagulanyi emphasized.

The manifesto launch drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters waving NUP flags, singing, and dancing despite the heavy police deployment.

A Tough Road Ahead

Analysts say Kyagulanyi’s campaign will face an uphill task in a political environment dominated by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and a security apparatus known for clamping down on opposition activity.

This is not just a campaign it is a people’s revolution. And no matter how many roadblocks they put before us, Ugandans will decide their future.

The NUP campaign will continue across the Busoga sub-region, with stops planned in Buyende and Kamuli, before heading north in the coming days.