Why is Bobi Wine campaigning in a helmet? Gen Nalweyiso questions NUP leader’s motives

• Nalweyiso questions why Bobi Wine campaigns in a helmet and bulletproof vest.

• She links the issue to recent clashes between supporters and security agencies.

• The senior advisor warns against actions that could undermine the electoral process.

The Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security, Lt. Gen. Proscovia Nalweyiso, has taken aim at National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, over what she described as a worrying trend during his campaign rallies.

Nalweyiso questioned why a presidential candidate would repeatedly appear in public wearing a helmet and bulletproof vest, saying the move creates the impression that violence is expected wherever he goes. She wondered why such extreme protective gear would be necessary, especially when claims have been made that stones thrown during rallies come from supporters themselves.

“Why would a candidate campaign in a helmet and bulletproof gear?” Nalweyiso asked. “It gives the impression that the candidate is anticipating violence. We have not seen other candidates do this, and it raises serious questions.”

Her remarks follow Bobi Wine’s recent campaign appearances in which he has been seen wearing protective gear, particularly after violent confrontations between his supporters and security agencies in different parts of the country. Incidents have been reported in areas such as Gulu and Nakawa, among others, where clashes disrupted campaign activities.

Nalweyiso also pointed out that while President Yoweri Museveni has made significant contributions over time, leadership responsibility does not rest with one person alone. She stressed that leaders at all levels must play their part, noting that in some areas there appears to be limited follow-up on maintaining order and ensuring peaceful political engagement.

She further cautioned that Uganda has eight presidential candidates and no single contender should act in a way that undermines the integrity of the electoral process. According to Nalweyiso, elections should never descend into chaos or scenes that suggest the country is on the brink of conflict.

“The election should not take us to that level,” she emphasized, calling for restraint and responsible conduct from all candidates.

Nalweyiso’s comments have added to the growing debate around campaign security, political messaging, and the responsibility of candidates to promote calm as the country moves toward the polls.