ANALYSIS: Why Bobi Wine’s Crowds Shouldn’t Excite You: Lessons from Kisoro’s By-Election

By Nabasa Wilson Alex

Uganda’s political arena is often a theatre of spectacle, where large crowds are mistaken for genuine political support. Yet, as the Kisoro Woman MP by-election of November 2024 vividly demonstrated, numbers at rallies rarely translate into votes. When Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, descended upon Kisoro with his characteristic energy and charisma, thousands gathered to see him. However, when the ballots were counted, his National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, Salim Sultana, managed only a handful of votes. Meanwhile, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate swept the race with an overwhelming majority of over 94,000 votes.

The Celebrity vs. The Politician

Bobi Wine’s appeal as a musician is undeniable. His artistry and stage presence have earned him a devoted following across Uganda, particularly among the youth. However, the enthusiasm he generates at rallies often stems from his celebrity status rather than political conviction. His events, vibrant and musical, sometimes resemble concerts more than political engagements. The Kisoro by-election was a clear example — huge crowds, great excitement, but little electoral impact. This underscores a hard truth: popularity in entertainment does not automatically translate into political success.

Ideology and Impact

In contrast, President Yoweri Museveni’s support is not built on fanfare but on substance. For nearly four decades, his leadership has shaped Uganda’s destiny — restoring stability, building infrastructure, and promoting economic growth. His vision continues to inspire confidence among Ugandans who seek progress over populism.

Key initiatives such as:

The Parish Development Model (PDM): Targeting household poverty eradication through grassroots empowerment.

Emyooga: Supporting small enterprises and SACCOs to promote inclusive wealth creation.

Women Empowerment Programs: Expanding opportunities for women in leadership, business, and education.

These are not mere campaign promises — they are active, ongoing efforts transforming livelihoods across the nation.

Crowds Don’t Vote

The Kisoro by-election sent a powerful message. It exposed the illusion of political strength built on stage-managed rallies and imported supporters. Voters in Kisoro chose substance over spectacle, policy over performance, and experience over excitement. It was a reminder that while crowds may create noise, they do not always create votes.

Uganda’s Bright Future

As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, the nation must remain focused on leadership that delivers results, not just applause. The NRM, under President Museveni’s stewardship, continues to provide a steady roadmap for unity, development, and transformation. Bobi Wine may fill stadiums, but Museveni’s policies fill schools, hospitals, and granaries.

Crowds may cheer, but votes decide. Uganda needs leaders whose vision translates into tangible change — leaders who build, not merely perform. The Kisoro by-election reaffirmed that Ugandans value impact over image, and results over rhetoric.

For God and My Country.

The writer is an NRM Cadre and Former NRM CEC Aspirant.