Uganda's Bobi Wine launches new party ahead of 2021 polls

<p><strong>Ugandan opposition figure and a staunch critic of the government, Bobi Wine has launched a new political party ahead of presidential election in 2021.</strong> </p> <p>The popular singer and lawmaker, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, has led a political pressure group known as People Power calling for President Yoweri Museveni’s retirement.</p> <p>The new party the National Unity Platform has an umbrella as its emblem.</p> <p>He has been calling for a united opposition against Museveni, a U.S. ally on regional security who has led the East African country since 1986. </p> <p>The 75-year-old Museveni is accused by the opposition of relying on the armed forces to stay in power. </p> <p>The lawmaker has been arrested or detained many times, including over a treason charge which he denies. </p> <p>Bobi Wine won a seat in parliament in 2017 as an independent candidate not backed by any party.</p> <p>His popularity grew when he opposed divisive efforts to prolong Museveni’s rule.</p> <p><strong><em>Agencies</em></strong></p>