Earlier this week, the Academy of Oscars revealed the list of nominees for its 96th edition, scheduled for March 10, and it is a film dedicated to Ugandan opponent Bobi Wine which was selected in the best category. documentary. Bobi Wine, the People’s President tells the story of Robert Kyagulanyi, his real name, and his fight for democracy in Uganda in the face of an authoritarian regime. An appointment that he hopes will contribute to a better understanding of the political situation in his country.
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The film begins with a fight scene. Bobi Wine teaches boxing to one of his sons. A banal scene, but which prepares the spectator for the fight he will lead later: that for democracy.
“ This film is told through my eyes as a political leader, and that of my wife and my colleagues, with whom we unite to launch a popular movement whose goal is to end the regime of General Yoweri Museveni, in power for 38 years », Explains the singer and MP.
In a scene from the film, Bobi Wine, in a combative tone, announces his candidacy for the 2021 presidential elections. In the crowd: thousands of his supporters, all dressed in red, the color of his movement: People Power. But his fight for democracy is met with repression.
Violence by security forces, aggression… In November 2020, the candidate was arrested in the middle of the campaign under the pretext that he was violating anti-Covid measures. His arrest, one of many, sparked demonstrations in Kampala, the capital, which were violently repressed.
Despite the difficulties encountered, Bobi Wine remains determined. His Oscar nomination gives visibility to his fight. “ For us, it is not just about winning a prize, it is a fight for this dear democracy, for this dear freedom. It is a fight for human rights. It is a fight for dignity. »
The former reggae singer was defeated in the presidential election, but continues to fight for freedom.