Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has stirred fresh debate after publicly advising opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, to consider joining President Yoweri Museveni’s government following the 2026 presidential election results.
Bobi Wine recently lost his second presidential bid to Museveni, who was declared winner of the January 15 polls. Despite the defeat, Bobi Wine remains leader of the opposition and one of Uganda’s most influential political and cultural figures.
However, Balaam believes the NUP president could achieve more by working from inside government rather than remaining in opposition.
In a direct message to the former musician-turned-politician, Balaam urged Bobi Wine to seek a role within the current administration to help implement his ideas on youth empowerment, ghetto transformation, and creative industry development.
“Honourable Bobi Wine, as one of Uganda’s celebrated music stars, I advise you to consider joining government and working alongside H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. You have the potential to make a real impact in transforming the ghetto, uplifting young people, and shaping Uganda’s cultural future.”, Balaam said.
Balaam pointed out that Bobi Wine’s rise from humble beginnings positions him well to contribute to programmes targeting disadvantaged youth who strongly relate to his life story and music.
He further encouraged Bobi Wine to directly engage President Museveni — whom he referred to as the “Father of the Nation” to explore possible cooperation in the 2026–2031 government term.
The minister also mentioned senior state figures, including Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Assignments and Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as possible channels through which Bobi Wine could initiate dialogue.
In his closing remarks, Balaam controversially suggested that Bobi Wine should consider stepping away from frontline opposition politics, arguing that his strongest contribution to national development could come from a different path.
His message has since sparked mixed reactions online, with supporters and critics debating whether Bobi Wine should stay in opposition or accept a role within government.
Stay tuned for more updates here.