Sheema — Senior Presidential Advisor on Agriculture and Local People, Ms Peace Rugambwa, has issued a controversial warning to Ugandans, urging them not to vote for opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Speaking on December 30, 2025, at the launch of the Sheema Youth Savings and Women Cooperative Society Limited in Sheema District, Ms Rugambwa said:
“When Ugandans vote for Bobi Wine, that day will be commemorated for smoking weed in the country. So don’t let drugs ruin our country for the sake of the children’s future.”
The remarks appear to reference stereotypes linking Bobi Wine, a former reggae and dancehall artist, with marijuana use—a trope that has surfaced in past political rhetoric in Uganda. The comments have sparked debate on social media and in news circles, with some observers criticising them as a politically charged attack amid the intensifying pre-election atmosphere.
Ms Rugambwa, who is known for her active role in NRM grassroots mobilisation in southwestern Uganda—including Kigezi, Ankole, and Rukungiri—has previously promoted government initiatives such as poverty alleviation programs, agricultural projects, and savings cooperatives. However, she has also faced scrutiny over alleged mismanagement in past projects, which she and her supporters have denied.
This incident comes as Uganda gears up for the January 2026 general elections, with political rhetoric heating up and both ruling and opposition parties intensifying campaigns. At the time of reporting, no official response from Bobi Wine or the National Unity Platform (NUP) regarding Ms Rugambwa’s remarks had been reported.
The event highlighted the growing polarisation in Uganda’s political landscape, as government officials emphasise stability and development while framing opposition figures in controversial terms.
