After Bobi Wine’s tribal and sectarian speech on September 8, 2023, and the resulting public backlash, he and his group have turned to social media in an attempt to distort facts and change the narrative.
On September 10, 2023, Bobi Wine, using his former Twitter account (@HEBobwine), wrote, “They openly practice tribalism and nepotism in every sphere and institution, but they are not ashamed to blame those who expose it and call them out. What a bunch of hypocrites!”
On September 15, he used the same account to write, “The Uganda Tribalism Exhibition is currently taking place. Have you done your part to expose it, or are you comfortable with it?”
All of this follows his statements in Luwero that received mixed reactions from other tribes and some liberal Baganda individuals. Many were unhappy with how he referred to non-Baganda as ‘Bagwiira’ (immigrants) and his continual attacks and belittlement of the first family.
As a political novice, Bobi Wine should be guiding his supporters instead of misleading and radicalizing them. He needs to understand that Buganda, as a tribe, is not enough on its own and requires the support of other tribes if he wants to be elected as president. His constant attacks and verbal outbursts against other tribes will only cause them to unite against Buganda when it comes time to vote, ultimately isolating Buganda.
The NRM ideology transformed Uganda’s politics from sectarianism to national unity, making it difficult for any presidential candidate to win elections based on sectarianism. It would also be unfortunate for any national leader to incite genocide, knowing full well the consequences, as seen in our neighboring country, Rwanda. Additionally, intermarriage has created a diverse mix, and all tribes should learn to coexist.
Instead of wasting time creating hashtags and manipulating people’s thoughts, Bobi Wine should apologize to non-Baganda individuals and liberal-minded Baganda who do not support his sectarian policy proposals. It’s important to understand that tribalism cannot be fought by promoting it.
It is imperative that Bobi Wine assumes responsibility for his regrettable employment of hate speech and his alleged incitement of genocide in Luwero. Rather than engaging in manipulative tactics to sway his supporters, he should prioritize acknowledging the gravity of his actions and issuing a sincere apology.
