Latif Madoi: Ugandan designer vows to regrow dreadlocks cut in jail

The pair met when Bobi Wine asked Mr Madoi to make him some clothes for his concerts and music videos. Their relationship continued when Bobi Wine entered politics – the opposition leader’s signature campaigning outfit, a pair of bright red overalls, were designed by Mr Madoi.

Mr Madoi accepts that he was in possession of military gear when police raided his school on 13 May – but that that uniform was from the US army.

He tells the BBC he was making alterations for his friend who is a serving marine in the United States.

Despite having this uniform, Mr Madoi says he is certain the police arrested him because he made Bobi Wine’s red overall.

“There’s no other reason. Everyone who is affiliated with Bobi Wine will always be arrested,” he says.

“We know we are not free any more. I cannot visit him at his home any time I want, like I used to. You always fear that maybe you will get arrested.”

The BBC has approached the Ugandan authorities for comment.

The country’s security forces have a long history of pursuing President Yoweri Museveni’s political opponents.

Bobi Wine, currently the president’s biggest rival, has been arrested numerous times and faced several charges, including treason, all of which he denies.

The authorities deny the arrests have been political and say they have been necessary to maintain law and order during opposition protests.