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When did Pallaso meet Bobi Wine?
Kampala, Uganda – September 29, 2025 — Ugandan musician Pius Mayanja, better known by his stage name Pallaso, has officially aligned himself with the National Unity Platform (NUP) in a move that could dramatically reshape perceptions within his famous musical family.
A video shared today shows Pallaso meeting Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, at the NUP headquarters. In the footage, Bobi Wine warmly welcomed him, remarking:
“I thank you, Pallaso, for showing the public that this is not just my thing. God blessed us with voices, and these voices have power. We can use them in a destructive way or a constructive way. Thank you for choosing the constructive way. I am really happy that we are living in this generation — a time when musical and artistic voices have been able to turn their energy towards the political hemisphere, towards the government and its flaws.”
Pallaso responded affirmatively, telling the NUP leader:
“Yes, I am also happy to associate with you, and you have my full support. Thank you.”
A Split in the Mayanja Family?
The decision is particularly striking because the Mayanja family has historically leaned toward the National Resistance Movement (NRM) of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Pallaso’s brothers — Jose Chameleone and Weasel — have long been associated with NRM. Chameleone in particular has been one of the most visible musicians endorsing the ruling party. Recently, the two brothers released music praising Museveni’s leadership, underscoring their political loyalties.
Pallaso’s shift to NUP therefore raises questions about whether this is a deep personal conviction or a calculated political statement — and how it may affect family unity, given the strong and opposing affiliations within the Mayanja household.
Bobi Wine’s Growing Movement
For Bobi Wine, the addition of another high-profile artist represents a symbolic boost. NUP has positioned itself as a home for Uganda’s youth, artists, and those disillusioned with Museveni’s decades in power.
Earlier this month, Bobi Wine inaugurated a new NUP office in Mbarara City, part of a wider campaign to expand the party’s reach ahead of the 2026 general elections. However, as has often been the case, the events were disrupted by police and military deployments. While authorities claim such presence is to “ensure safety,” opposition supporters argue that it is systematic obstruction.
How Museveni has been able to catch up with Bobi Wine
President Museveni has, on the other hand, mastered the art of working with musicians to bolster his political image. Over the years, he has enlisted the support of some of Uganda’s biggest stars, including Eddy Kenzo, whose State House visit drew significant attention, and Alien Skin, whose rising popularity has also been tapped by the ruling party. By aligning himself with artists who command massive followings, Museveni has ensured that he maintains cultural relevance and continues to connect with younger audiences.
This tug-of-war for musical talent highlights how both the ruling party and the opposition are relying on the influence of Uganda’s entertainment industry as they prepare for the next election cycle.
