“Musicians, I am tired of you. That one I have to repeat on camera. You have taken a lot of time. I have not even had time to meet the NRM people, can you imagine? Because when it is morning, I am meeting Bucha Man, in the afternoon, I am meeting Ragga Dee, in the evening,” Saleh stated. This outburst highlights the challenges faced by government officials in balancing their duties with the demands placed on them by the entertainment sector.
This isn’t the first time Gen. Saleh has raised issues with musicians. Earlier this year, he expressed concern over the growing number of artists flocking to Gulu during the festive season. In a handwritten letter dated November 17, he addressed Eddy Kenzo, President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives, urging him to manage the influx of musicians during Christmas festivities to minimize disruptions to his work.
The leadership of OWC has also called on stakeholders in the creative industry, particularly UNMF and the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA), to align their activities with national development goals. The increasing visits from musicians and comedians to Gen. Saleh’s residence in Te-dam Cell, Bardege Parish, Layibi-Bardege Division, Gulu City have sparked rumors that these visits are motivated by financial support pursuits.
As Uganda prepares for upcoming elections and continues to navigate complex socio-political dynamics, the relationship between government officials and the music industry remains a topic of discussion. The interplay between cultural expression and political responsibilities will be crucial in shaping Uganda’s future.