KAMPALA
A tense atmosphere surrounds the home of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu following a violent overnight raid that left his wife, Itungo Barbara Kyagulanyi, hospitalized and calling on her husband to remain in hiding for his own safety.
Speaking from her bed at Nsambya Hospital on Saturday afternoon, Barbie Kyagulanyi recounted the harrowing events that unfolded at their Magere residence in Wakiso District. She said a group of masked, armed men stormed the home, assaulting her, a house helper, and a security guard while demanding to know the whereabouts of her husband, who has not been seen publicly since casting his vote on 14 January 2026.
According to her account, the attackers vandalized property, looted belongings, and issued threats as they attempted to force her to reveal Kyagulanyi’s location. Despite the ordeal, she told journalists that she refused to yield to the pressure. Barbie also noted she was surprised about the attack yet police has been all over her neighborhood since 14th January. “What’s then there role at my home if they cannot protect me from such insecurities? ” Barbie asked.
Barbie described the experience as “traumatic and horrifying,” but emphasized that she remains strong. She urged her husband referred to by supporters as “the president” to only reappear when he believes it is safe to do so.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) issued a statement condemning the raid, describing it as part of a pattern of intimidation surrounding the recently concluded elections. The party called on the international community to take note of what it characterized as abuses and to hold the Ugandan government accountable for actions it views as repressive.
As investigations into the incident continue, concerns remain high regarding the safety of opposition figures and their families in the post‑election climate. The whereabouts of Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu have not been publicly confirmed since election day.
