Fact Check: Did NUP Supporters Loot Nateete Market After Bobi Wine’s Rally?

The claim that National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters looted Nateete Market stalls after a Bobi Wine rally on Wednesday, 24th September 2025, has circulated on social platforms and blogs. However, a fact check reveals that this claim is misleading and not substantiated by credible, verifiable evidence from independent news sources or official statements as of this morning.

Lack of Independent Confirmation

No reputable Ugandan media outlets or international news organisations have reported on widespread looting, assaults, or market destruction associated with NUP supporters following Bobi Wine’s Nateete rally on the evening of September 24, 2025. Such an event involving large-scale property damage and violence would almost certainly attract significant media attention and prompt statements from law enforcement or NUP leadership. Currently, searches of mainstream platforms and NUP’s official channels yield no corroboration of the claims.

Claims Lack Evidence

The narrative circulating on social media relies heavily on anonymous sources and alleged eyewitnesses. Phrases such as “allegedly engaged in widespread looting,” “described as hungry and unruly,” and personal testimonies are presented without direct verification, photographic evidence, or police reports. Misinformation surrounding political events in Uganda especially during campaign seasons often involves exaggeration or fabrication to inflame tensions.

Official Statements from NUP

As of this morning, there has been no official acknowledgement, apology, or condemnation from Bobi Wine, the NUP party, or local law enforcement addressing any alleged looting involving their followers at the Nateete rally. On the contrary, the party’s communications focus on peaceful mobilisation and have warned supporters against violence or theft at events.

Context of Political Disinformation

Ugandan election periods are often marked by coordinated attempts to damage political reputations through false or exaggerated allegations—especially using viral WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts, and blogs. Similar unverified claims have surfaced during past rallies but were later debunked or proven to be unrelated incidents exaggerated for political effect.

Screenshot of the claim on the Explorer Newspaper

There is no verifiable or independently confirmed evidence to support the claim that NUP supporters looted Nateete Market following Bobi Wine’s rally on September 24, 2025. The story is currently based on anonymous allegations and social media posts without corroboration from trustworthy news agencies, official police reports, or real-time eyewitness documentation. It is advisable to treat this narrative with skepticism and await confirmation from reliable sources.