Bobi Wine backs Olara Otunnu for top UN job

Uganda’s Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has publicly endorsed veteran diplomat Ambassador Olara Otunnu for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, urging Ugandans and the international community to rally behind the candidate.

Uganda formally nominated Ambassador Otunnu, a former UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, to join the race for the UN’s top diplomatic post.

The nomination places Otunnu in a competitive global field seeking to lead the world body.

In a statement released on Thursday, August 27, the National Unity Platform (NUP) party leader expressed pride in Otunnu’s nomination, highlighting his extensive international career, his track record in championing human rights, and his work protecting children affected by armed conflict.

"As a Ugandan, it fills me with pride to see an illustrious son of our nation carry a lifetime of global service, a fierce commitment to the vulnerable, and a deep passion for justice to the world stage," Kyagulanyi said. "For years, many of us have followed with great respect Ambassador Olara Otunnu’s incredible track record at the United Nations."

Kyagulanyi praised Otunnu’s core vision for global institutional reform, adding that his experience equips him with the leadership required at a crucial juncture for global diplomacy.

"His work championing human rights and protecting children in armed conflict is exactly the kind of leadership the global community desperately needs right now. True leadership is measured by integrity, vision, and an unwavering dedication to peace and justice," Kyagulanyi stated.

The relationship between Ambassador Otunnu and the ruling government under President Yoweri Museveni was historically frosty for decades. After completing his terms at the United Nations, Otunnu faced years of friction with the Ugandan government, which previously declined to renew his passport and withheld state endorsement during earlier bids for top international positions.

Otunnu later acquired citizenship in Côte d'Ivoire in 2005 before returning to Uganda, where he re-entered domestic politics, took over the presidency of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) in 2010, and contested the 2011 presidential election.

Reflecting on those past political tensions, Kyagulanyi acknowledged the historical context behind Otunnu’s diplomatic career while pointing out past state opposition to his rise.

"We cannot forget the historical injustice when the Museveni regime vindictively denied him an endorsement for this very position years ago," Kyagulanyi said. "They blocked him for simply refusing to stay silent about the atrocities they were committing against our people. Perhaps if he had risen to that position at the time, the world would be fairer, more just, and more peaceful."

Kyagulanyi also addressed concerns among some citizens and opposition supporters regarding the government’s sudden decision to officially sponsor Otunnu’s bid.
"I hear some citizens who are raising tough questions about why the regime has suddenly changed its mind to endorse him now. Your scepticism is understandable, given what the bloodthirsty regime is doing to our people," Kyagulanyi noted. "And I know Ambassador Otunnu to be a man of deep humility who welcomes free speech and receives your concerns with grace."

Despite those political undertones, Kyagulanyi expressed confidence that Otunnu’s leadership on the international stage would remain rooted in values of accountability and peace.

"Central to his vision is a profound passion for genuine multilateral reform, where international institutions must evolve beyond mere arenas of superpower politics to become true instruments of equity, accountability, and shared prosperity for all nations," Kyagulanyi said.

He added: "We can all bank on his long-term, proven integrity and hope that when he rises to become the world’s top diplomat, he will never turn a blind eye to the ongoing struggle for freedom in his own motherland. As he has consistently acknowledged, Uganda faces dark spots that need fixing. Ambassador Otunnu has my full solidarity and prayers as he carries our collective aspirations for a fairer world to the global stage."

Ambassador Otunnu’s campaign platform centres on comprehensive structural reform within the UN, advancing global peace and security, economic empowerment, protecting women and children in conflict zones, and strengthening ties between the UN and regional organisations.

Written by Franklin  Ezaruku Draku

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