Besigye Apologizes to Bobi Wine Over “Twebereremu” Remarks

Former Presidential Candidate Kizza Besigye has clarified on the remarks about the “Twebereremu” slogan often used by Kyadondo East MP Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine.

While addressing fellow Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party members on Saturday, Besigye announced his retirement from aspiring for Ugandan presidency and condemned tribal sentiments by some opposition figures that use the slogan “Twebereremu”.

“Twebereremu” means “let us stand together for oneself”.

A short 50-second clip of Besigye making the remarks on Saturday caused mixed reactions among Ugandans on Social Media, with many of Bobi Wine’s supporters accusing Besigye of attacking the Kyadondo East legislator over championing a tribal campaign through his slogan.

“So shameful that Kizza Besigye can misrepresent a clear message by Bobi Wine. At least I have listened to Bobi saying, “be part of this struggle, don’t leave it to your leaders; mwebereremu.” How tribalistic is that message?” tweeted a one Sadab Kitatta.

Besigye would on Sunday respond to Kitatta’s tweet, clarifying that his statement was misinterpreted.

Besigye added that his “brother” Bobi Wine is not part of group propagating the hateful propaganda and apologized to legislator and his supporters if his remarks had been misunderstood.

“A deliberate attempt by some interest to pit me against my brother Bobi wine isn’t lost on me. The clip of 50 seconds from a speech of one and half hours can do that. Bobi isn’t one of those driving a tribal campaign whoever understood my words be aimed Bobi , my sincere apology,” Besigye tweeted.

Muhamad Matovu