Uganda: Nubian Li Arrested

9 September 2025

Nubian Li, the singer-turned-politician and a long-time confidante of National Unity Platform president Robert Kyagulanyi, has been arrested shortly after submitting his nomination papers for Nakawa Division mayor.

Police, who had been stationed outside the Electoral Commission office gates in Ntinda, escorted him immediately into custody.

Nubian Li, who was born Ali Buken, was driven away to an undisclosed location by heavily armed officers, and authorities have not yet provided details on the reason for his detention.

He had arrived at the EC offices to find heavy security, greeting the officers as he smiled and walked in.

And upon walking out, he was immediately sandwiched by the officers and Nubian Li appeared to have been aware of what awaited from way back when he arrived here.

He did not resist and was escorted into the co-driver's seat of the pickup patrol vehicle and driven away.

The arrest comes a day after Alex Mufumbiro was picked up outside Makindye Magistrate's Court by security operatives.

Mufumbiro and other NUP members are reportedly being questioned over a military drill-like parade that took place at the party headquarters in Makerere Kavule several months ago.

Supporters of Nubian Li and other NUP members have called for clarification on the detentions, raising concerns over the treatment of political aspirants during the nomination period.

AllAfrica publishes around 600 reports a day from more than 90 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.