“I Warned Musicians That Museveni’s Gov’t Would Make Them Beggars & Lose All Their Supporters But They Took Me As A Fool” Says Bobi Wine

National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, has once again criticized Ugandan artists for relying on government handouts, claiming that this dependency undermines their value, independence, and respect.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Kyagulanyi accused some artists of betraying their fans and the public by aligning with oppressive systems and individuals who exploit ordinary Ugandans. He specifically called out Gen. Salim Saleh, the coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and President Yoweri Museveni’s brother, for allegedly exerting undue control over the music industry despite lacking expertise.

“I warned you that these people would reduce you to beggars, despised even by those who genuinely support your art. They exploit Ugandans who connect with your music because it reflects their struggles,” Kyagulanyi said.

He criticized artists for accepting financial favors rather than advocating for systemic reforms that would benefit the entire creative industry. He also reiterated his push for legislative protection of artists’ rights and highlighted his advice to fellow artist-turned-MP Dr. Hilderman (Hilary Kiyaga) to champion a Copyright Bill in Parliament.

“I told Dr. Hilderman to prioritize this issue in Parliament, and he did. But many artists have shown little interest,” Kyagulanyi lamented, adding that a lack of collective support for such reforms has left many musicians vulnerable and overly dependent on handouts, eroding their dignity and professionalism.

Kyagulanyi’s criticism extended to Gen. Saleh, whom he accused of using financial leverage to control the music industry. “The man (Gen. Saleh) disrespects artists. Someone who cannot sing a single note is now dictating the music industry because he has money and connections,” he said.

Recently, during a public event in Gulu, Gen. Saleh rejected a song by Omulangira Suuna, intended to promote wealth creation initiatives. He expressed frustration with musicians, accusing them of inefficiency and delaying contributions to OWC programs.

“Musicians, I am tired of you,” Saleh said. “I have not even had time to meet NRM people. In the morning, I meet Bucha Man; in the afternoon, Ragga Dee; and in the evening, Odongo,” he lamented.

In a letter dated November 17, Saleh directed Eddy Kenzo, President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives, to address the influx of musicians seeking financial support at his Gulu residence, particularly during the festive season.

Artists Respond: Call for Unity and Independence

Cinderella Sanyu, known as Cindy, the President of the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA), urged artists to unite under UMA and avoid dependency on external influences, including Gen. Saleh.

“Gen. Salim Saleh does not run the entertainment industry. We, as artists, are responsible for it,” Cindy said. She emphasized the need for artists to work within UMA’s structures to ensure sustainable growth.

“There are government ministries tasked with supporting the music industry—not Gen. Saleh. This is why UMA leadership stopped engaging with him long ago,” she added.

While Gen. Saleh has been active in supporting artists and stakeholders under OWC initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and economic transformation, Kyagulanyi has consistently warned against government handouts. He argues that such dependence weakens artists’ professionalism and independence.