VISA MAFIA! NUP Caught in Global Scam as Security, US Embassy Crack Down on Fake Activism

Uganda’s security circles have launched a massive investigation into what they describe as a “visa mafia network” allegedly run by elements in the National Unity Platform (NUP), who are accused of manipulating foreign visa rules through fake activism and forged documents.

According to reliable intelligence sources, the racket came to light after the US Embassy in Kampala arrested three Ugandan nationals on July 8, 2025 for attempting to fraudulently obtain student visas using forged academic documents. The trio are currently under intense investigation, and their arrest has sent shockwaves through both political and diplomatic circles.

The Asylum Tactic

Authorities allege that several NUP-linked individuals have perfected the art of disguising themselves as “persecuted activists” once they reach destinations abroad. While in Uganda, many have no political footprint, but upon arrival overseas, they rush to seek asylum claiming they are hunted opposition figures.

The list of suspects reads like a celebrity roll call:

Patriko Mujuuka, former NUP Nakifuma MP aspirant and CBS radio journalist, relocated to the USA in 2023.

William Ntege aka Kyuma kya Yesu, a fiery street preacher and former NTV journalist, is now in Canada.

Ashiraf Kasirye, Ghetto TV cameraman injured during the 2021 elections, also fled to the USA.

Flavia Namulindwa, once a Bukedde TV darling, has quietly settled in the US.

Earlier, Samuel Obedgiu aka Strike Machine made headlines after staging noisy strikes that attracted media coverage. His antics allegedly won him a visa, and today he boasts of being a NUP advisor abroad, branding himself an environmental and civic human rights activist.

Other names believed to be exploiting the loophole include Sombi Ibrahim Omondi (South Africa), Daniel Kawuma (USA), Susan N. Kimaswa, Brenda Nakato, Peter Ekakoro, Isaac Kasirye, and Elizabeth Nantezza Lubwama among others.

Security Rotten Apples?

Shockingly, intelligence reports hint that some officers within the Crime Intelligence (CI) and Field Force Unit (FFU) are suspected of colluding with the opposition to fake arrests, beatings, and street activism that make these individuals appear like targeted dissidents.

“This is a well-oiled network. Fake activism is staged, photos are taken, and then the story is packaged for embassy desks abroad,” a source whispered.

Embassy Strikes Back

In response, the US Embassy has issued stern warnings, hinting at halting visas for Ugandan applicants due to rampant fraud. It reminded applicants that using visas for childbirth tourism or overstaying could lead to permanent bans.

One official bluntly noted: “Some of these people are not activists. They are opportunists exploiting our immigration system.”

Kidandala Bombshell

As if that is not enough, fresh reports indicate that Hon. Sulaiman Kidandala, a prominent NUP MP, was recently arrested in South Korea for trafficking supporters under the guise of political persecution. This arrest has only deepened suspicions of an international racket.

Bobi Wine’s Festival Storm

Amid this diplomatic storm, NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine is set to headline the UG Festival 2025 in London later this year. The event boasts a star-studded lineup—Nubian Li, Maddox Sematimba, Lord Fred Sebatta, Princess Tiffah, MC Mariachi among others—with ticket prices ranging from £10 for children to £500 for a table of 10.

But critics have blasted the timing, questioning why Bobi Wine is prioritizing overseas concerts while Uganda gears up for heated pre-election campaigns.

The Big Question

With fraud investigations tightening, embassy sanctions looming, and high-profile arrests making headlines, Ugandans are left asking:Is NUP a political party—or a visa syndicate in disguise?