Eddy Kenzo has clarified that he has no intention of entering politics or contesting for any political position. Recently, Kenzo, along with a group of other artists, broke away from the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) to form the Uganda National Musician Federation (UNMF), a move that has stirred tensions within the industry. Some critics, particularly artists aligned with Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP), have accused them of taking billions from the government without addressing long-term solutions like amending copyright laws.
Kenzo, once a vocal government critic, explained that his focus is now on supporting the music industry. “I had to put politics aside to benefit the industry as a whole. That’s why I met the president for solutions that would help everyone,” he said.
Addressing rumors of political ambitions, Kenzo stated, “Do not expect me to contest for any political position because I’m not a politician. I’m just trying to help my friends, as charity begins at home.” He believes there is deliberate propaganda aimed at dividing artists because their unity would give them greater bargaining power. “We are not fighting anyone or trying to cause harm. We just want to contribute to the country by developing the creative sector, which adds a lot,” he added.
Kenzo emphasized that the federation is non-partisan and was created to serve all artists, many of whom are unfamiliar with politics. “We need to create a common ground for everyone, and that can’t happen without bargaining,” he explained during a meeting.
Bobi Wine has urged artists to avoid engaging with the president, accusing him of turning them into “beggars in their own country.” Kenzo countered, stating that the government is the only body capable of addressing their concerns. “There’s no one else we can reach out to for help because it’s the government that makes the policies,” he noted.
Kenzo also expressed his support for President Museveni, saying, “If I wake up one morning and start supporting Museveni, it is not bad. You are also allowed to support whoever you want. Now that he has brought the poor like me closer and listened to my issues, I love him the most. But that is just me; you have your own choices.
