For years, speculation has spun around the operations of the National Unity Platform (NUP), especially the army of dedicated ‘foot soldiers’ who accompany the party president and other top party leaders at rallies, processions, and even burial events. Clad in their signature red berets and overalls, these individuals are always at the forefront—clearing the way, brutalizing onlookers, confronting security, and energizing crowds with chants of solidarity.
Most of the times, they outmatch the organic crowds gathered for the events. This has left many wondering: how does NUP manage to coordinate and sustain such a massive, consistent turnout? and more importantly, how are they compensated for their tireless work with the party’s limited resources?
Through interviews with some of these foot soldiers, we uncover the strategies behind their participation and the rewards that keep them loyal to the cause.
Promises
One of the NUP foot soldiers interviewed revealed that they are not paid monetarily for their efforts, but they are motivated by the promise of future opportunities within the party. According to the interviewee, many foot soldiers believe their sacrifices will be rewarded with significant positions once the party assumes power.
“We don’t get paid, but we’re told that when the party takes over, those of us who have been loyal and committed will be given juicy positions,” the foot soldier disclosed.
Self-pay
Another foot soldier admitted that some members resort to self-compensation by grabbing valuables from onlookers during rallies and processions. “We don’t get paid, so some of us take advantage of the crowds to grab phones, wallets, or other valuables,” the interviewee revealed candidly.
This claim aligns with police reports detailing numerous complaints of stolen items, particularly phones, during NUP rallies and Bobi Wine processions. Several attendees and bystanders have reported losing their belongings, further fueling allegations of opportunistic behavior among some party foot soldiers.
Free Food
Another interviewee highlighted that food plays a key role in mobilizing foot soldiers. He explained that participants are provided with meals before setting off for rallies and upon their return, a practice that attracts many idle youths to join.
“We may not get money, but they always give us food, and for many of us, that’s enough,” the interviewee stated, adding that “free food brings in a lot of youth who are willing to work as foot soldiers without pay.”
Data allowances
Another foot soldier interviewed revealed that on rare occasions, when NUP leader Bobi Wine returns from foreign trips, foot soldiers are given data allowances to boost their online activism. The allowances, ranging from UGX 10,000 to UGX 50,000, are distributed to encourage social media engagement and amplify the party’s message.
“It’s not much, but it helps us stay active on social media, sharing posts and countering critics,” he stated. This occasional gesture serves as both a token of appreciation and a tool to strengthen the party’s digital presence.
NUP Secretary General Speaks Out
In a separate interview with NUP Secretary General David Rubongoya, he confirmed and emphasized that the party’s foot soldiers are not financially motivated but are driven by a shared vision for a better Uganda. According to Rubongoya, their dedication stems from a genuine desire to see change in the country, not monetary rewards.
“Our foot soldiers work voluntarily because they believe in the cause,” Rubongoya said. “They are fighting for a free and just Uganda where everyone has equal opportunities. Their commitment is a testament to the power of collective action driven by hope, not financial gain.” He added that the party’s strength lies in its ability to inspire citizens to contribute selflessly toward achieving this shared dream.
Analysts have criticized this arrangement within the NUP, calling it hypocritical that the party’s foot soldiers—many of whom risk their lives and dedicate countless hours to advancing the party’s agenda—receive no pay, while individuals close to party leader Bobi Wine, such as his wife and brothers, reportedly enjoy huge financial benefits from the party coffers for no work.
This perceived favoritism is evidenced by the luxurious lifestyles of Bobi Wine’s family members, raising questions about the party’s commitment to the grassroots supporters who form its backbone. Critics argue that such inequalities undermine the party’s claims of championing equality and justice, leaving many foot soldiers feeling undervalued despite their sacrifices.
