Bobi Wine Is Lying, I wasn't Kidnapped - NUP’s Asio Florence

The controversy surrounding the alleged “kidnapping” of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Asio Florence has taken a dramatic turn after Asio herself publicly denied the claims.

In a video statement released on Sunday evening, October 26, Asio—who had earlier been reported missing just days before her nomination—clarified that she was never abducted, contrary to allegations made by her party.

“My name is Asio Florence, the NUP flag bearer for Bukedea District Woman MP. I wish to categorically make it clear that I was not kidnapped as alleged by my party leadership. My decision not to appear for nomination came out of family pressure, being that I am the daughter of the Right Honourable Speaker Anita Annet Among,” she explained.

Her revelation follows days of intense speculation and public outcry after Bobi Wine, NUP’s president, accused Speaker Anita Among of masterminding her disappearance. In a post shared on October 23, Bobi Wine alleged that “unknown armed persons” had intimidated Asio’s family to force her out of the race, sparking outrage and widespread debate online.

The party also circulated an emotional audio clip purportedly featuring Asio in distress, claiming she was “still undergoing trauma.” The narrative dominated social media until Asio’s calm and composed video statement shifted the conversation entirely.

Asio clarified that her decision to contest under NUP was made suddenly and shocked her family, triggering immense internal pressure.

“My intentions to contest came in on short notice, and my family was not aware. It came as a shock on the day of my unveiling. That’s when the pressure started mounting. I didn’t take it seriously at first, but I couldn’t hold it anymore,” she said.

Her statement has left NUP facing tough questions, as neither Bobi Wine nor the party spokesperson had issued a response by late Sunday.

Online reactions remain divided—some accuse the party of rushing to conclusions without verification, while others sympathize with Asio for being caught between family loyalty and political ambition.

Meanwhile, Speaker Anita Among, who was previously accused of being behind the alleged abduction, has not commented publicly. However, sources close to her reportedly describe the situation as “vindication by truth.”

It’s worth noting that Anita Among has since been declared unopposed by the Electoral Commission after no other candidate showed up for nomination in the Bukedea Woman MP race.