Uganda’s military chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has denied allegations that soldiers assaulted Barbara Kyagulanyi, the wife of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi popularly known as Bobi Wineduring a raid at the couple’s home. The denial follows claims by Wine and his wife that armed men in military attire surrounded and entered the residence while seeking Wine, who says he is in hiding after the disputed 15 January election reports by AP news.

Wine alleged on Saturday that his wife was held at gunpoint by military officers and assaulted, and that documents and electronic devices were taken from their home. He also said the residence remained under military surveillance afterward. Speaking from hospital, Barbara Kyagulanyi said officers demanded to know her husband’s whereabouts and assaulted her when she refused to cooperate.

On Monday, Kainerugaba posted on X that his forces were not responsible for assaulting her. In the same post, he said soldiers were searching for Wine, not his wife. The statements have drawn criticism because they come amid heightened political tensions following the election in which President Yoweri Museveni Kainerugaba’s father was declared the winner in a landslide. Wine has rejected the results, alleging fraud.

What Barbara Kyagulanyi says happened

From her hospital bed, Barbara Kyagulanyi described an overnight incident involving dozens of men, some wearing military uniforms, who forced their way into the home. She said she was harassed and assaulted during questioning about Wine’s location, and that she suffered injuries to her face and mouth. She also alleged she was partially undressed during the ordeal and later lost consciousness.

Wine said his wife was taken to hospital with physical injuries and psychological trauma. He added that the family home remained surrounded by security personnel after the raid.

Denial amid wider post-election threats

Kainerugaba’s denial comes in a period of sharp, public confrontation between the military leadership and the opposition. Since Museveni was declared the winner of the 15 January vote, Kainerugaba has repeatedly demanded Wine’s surrender and has issued threats against him, according to Wine and multiple media reports.

Wine said on Monday that Kainerugaba was still searching for him and “issuing threats” to harm him. He also thanked supporters who, he said, have helped keep him safe.

The Associated Press has separately reported that Wine’s lawyer has appealed for international pressure to secure guarantees for Wine’s safety, citing escalating rhetoric and intimidation.