Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine has received international recognition after being awarded the Heroes of Democracy Award by the Renew Democracy Initiative (RDI).
The award, presented in New York, celebrates Kyagulanyi’s advocacy for democratic governance, civic engagement, and the protection of fundamental rights.
In announcing the honour, RDI credited him with inspiring citizens through what it described as “principled leadership” and a commitment to peaceful political action.
The ceremony brought together several global figures, including former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton, former Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, and U.S. Senator Mark Kelly.
While accepting the award, Kyagulanyi used the moment to highlight what he called the realities facing Ugandans under President Yoweri Museveni. He described the country as being under prolonged authoritarian rule and stressed that his presence abroad was not as an exile, but as a voice for citizens pushing for change.
“I represent millions of Ugandans who are determined not to give up on their future,” he told the audience.
He went on to raise concerns about alleged human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances and violence against civilians. Kyagulanyi pointed to personal experiences within his family, mentioning that his wife, Barbie Itungo Kyagulanyi, had previously faced mistreatment by security forces.
Turning to the international community, he urged governments—especially the United States—to take a firmer stance on human rights. He called for targeted sanctions against individuals accused of abuses, citing legal frameworks such as the Magnitsky Act.
Kyagulanyi emphasised that Ugandans are not seeking external intervention, but rather an end to foreign support for actions that undermine their freedoms.
“We are not asking for rescue,” he said. “We are asking the world to stop enabling injustice.”
