Ugandan Artists Urged to Prioritize Independence Over Gov’t Handouts

Summary:

• Bobi Wine has criticized Ugandan artists for relying on government handouts, particularly from Gen. Salim Saleh, claiming it undermines their independence and professionalism. He urged artists to advocate for systemic reforms, support copyright legislation, and engage with structures like UMA instead of depending on external influences. Gen. Saleh and UMA President Cindy Sanyu also addressed issues of artist dependency, emphasizing sustainable industry growth.

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National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, has once again called out Ugandan artists for relying on government financial support, claiming it undermines their value, respect, and independence.

During a media address on Monday, Kyagulanyi criticized artists who align with individuals and systems that perpetuate oppression, accusing them of betraying their fans and the public. He singled out Gen. Salim Saleh, coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and brother to President Yoweri Museveni, alleging that Saleh wields undue influence over the music industry without expertise in the field.

“I warned you that these people would reduce you to beggars and alienate you from your true supporters. They exploit the same Ugandans who have stood by you because your music speaks to their struggles,” Kyagulanyi stated.

The NUP leader urged artists to advocate for industry-wide reforms instead of accepting handouts, which he said erode their dignity. He pointed to his ongoing push for legislation to protect artists’ rights, highlighting efforts by fellow artist and MP Dr. Hilderman (Hilary Kiyaga) to introduce a Copyright Bill in Parliament.

“I told Dr. Hilderman to take this matter to Parliament, and he did. But many artists have shown little interest in supporting these reforms,” Kyagulanyi lamented, adding that the lack of collective action leaves musicians vulnerable and dependent.

Kyagulanyi further accused Gen. Saleh of disrespecting artists, alleging that he uses financial leverage to control the industry.

“Gen. Saleh, a man who cannot sing a note, now dictates the music industry simply because he is the President’s brother and controls money for handouts,” Kyagulanyi said.

In Gulu, Gen. Saleh reportedly expressed frustration with musicians during a public event, rejecting a song by Omulangira Suuna meant to promote wealth creation. He criticized artists for inefficiencies, noting delays in their contributions to OWC initiatives.

“Musicians, I am tired of you. You’ve taken too much time. Imagine, I haven’t even met NRM members because I’m busy meeting artists like Bucha Man, Ragga Dee, and Odongo,” Saleh reportedly said.

In a letter dated November 17, Gen. Saleh appealed to Eddy Kenzo, President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), to manage the growing number of artists seeking financial aid from his residence in Gulu.

UMA President Cinderella Sanyu (Cindy) also weighed in, encouraging artists to rebuild their independence through UMA structures rather than relying on OWC programs.

“Gen. Saleh does not run the entertainment industry; we, the artists, do. Ministries responsible for the music industry should handle these matters, not Gen. Saleh,” Cindy emphasized.

She urged artists to prioritize sustainability by engaging with UMA and avoiding external dependencies.

While Gen. Saleh has been involved in initiatives aimed at poverty reduction and economic transformation, Kyagulanyi continues to caution against government handouts, arguing that they diminish artists’ independence and professionalism.