Full Speech of Bobi Wine at the Geneva Summit 2026: A Powerful Call for Democracy and Human Rights
Geneva, Switzerland – February 2026 — Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine delivered a passionate and uncompromising address at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy 2026, drawing global attention to the political situation in Uganda and broader human rights concerns across Africa.
Speaking before diplomats, activists, and international policymakers, the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader called for urgent international solidarity, democratic reforms, and accountability for human rights violations.
Bobi Wine’s Full Speech at the Geneva Summit 2026
Below is the full text of Bobi Wine’s speech as delivered at the summit:
“Distinguished guests, human rights defenders, ladies and gentlemen,
I stand before you not just as a politician from Uganda, but as a representative of millions of voiceless citizens whose fundamental freedoms have been trampled upon.
Uganda, a country once full of promise, is today governed through fear, intimidation, and repression. Citizens who demand accountability are met with brutality. Journalists are silenced. Opposition leaders are unlawfully detained. Young people are abducted for daring to imagine a better future.
I have personally experienced imprisonment, torture, and repeated house arrests. But my story is not unique. It mirrors the daily reality of countless Ugandans whose names may never appear in international headlines.
Our struggle is not about power. It is about principle. It is about restoring the dignity of our people and ensuring that every Ugandan has the right to choose their leaders freely and fairly.
We call upon the international community to move beyond statements of concern. We urge democratic nations to stand firmly with the people of Uganda — not with their oppressors.
The future of Africa depends on accountable leadership, independent institutions, and respect for constitutionalism. When leaders manipulate constitutions to extend their rule indefinitely, democracy becomes an illusion.
To the young people of Uganda and across Africa: do not surrender your dreams. History has shown us that no dictatorship lasts forever. The power of the people is stronger than the people in power.
I thank you for your solidarity and for keeping the light of human rights burning brightly across the world.”**
Key Highlights from Bobi Wine’s Geneva Summit Address
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Strong criticism of governance and electoral processes in Uganda
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Calls for international accountability mechanisms
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Appeal for protection of journalists and political prisoners
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Emphasis on youth activism and democratic reform
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Message of resilience and peaceful resistance
Observers noted that the speech received multiple standing ovations, particularly during his remarks on youth empowerment and constitutional reform.
International Reaction
Human rights advocates at the summit praised Bobi Wine’s courage and consistency in advocating for democratic change. Several European lawmakers reiterated their commitment to monitoring Uganda’s political climate and supporting civil society organizations.
The Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy is an annual event that brings together activists from around the world to spotlight urgent human rights crises and promote democratic governance.
Why the Speech Matters
Bobi Wine’s appearance at the 2026 Geneva Summit underscores his continued role as one of Africa’s most visible opposition figures. As Uganda navigates ongoing political tensions, his international advocacy continues to shape global discourse on democracy, governance, and human rights in the region.
The full speech has since circulated widely across social media platforms, drawing praise from supporters and criticism from government officials in Kampala.
