By BigEyeUg Team
Dancehall artist Beenie Gunter, whose real name is Crescent Baguma, has expressed disappointment over the lack of assistance from the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) President, Eddy Kenzo, during his recent arrest in Abu Dhabi.
In January, upon Beenie Gunter’s arrest, Eddy Kenzo had initially pledged to secure his release and ensure justice prevailed. He had already reached out to H.E. Zaake W. Kibedi, the Ambassador of the Republic of Uganda to the United Arab Emirates, indicating his commitment to swiftly resolve the matter.
However, upon his return to Uganda, Beenie Gunter revealed in an interview with a local TV station that despite reaching out to Kenzo and the federation for help, he was left disappointed. Kenzo allegedly cited the complexity of the situation and expressed his inability to intervene effectively.
“I tried to talk to Kenzo and his federation expecting to be helped but it wasn’t the case. I was disappointed. He told me it was a complicated issue for him to handle. He told me there was nothing much he would do. But for me I don’t have a problem with him, If that’s his nature, I don’t care,” said Beenie Gunter.
The singer’s arrest occurred at a Dubai airport while he was attempting to return to Uganda with his girlfriend and baby mama, Nickie Berry. It stemmed from a dispute between music promoters that escalated into a physical altercation and property damage, leading to his transfer to Abu Dhabi and subsequent accusations related to the brawl.
The incident took place on January 8th, 2024, when Beenie Gunter was scheduled to perform in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. After nearly a month of detainment in Abu Dhabi, he returned to Uganda last week.
Acknowledging the support he received during his ordeal, Beenie Gunter thanked National Unity Platform President, Bobi Wine, and singer Crysto Panda for their significant assistance while he was stranded abroad.
Beenie Gunter’s case highlights the challenges faced by musicians abroad and raises questions about the role of industry federations in providing support during such crises.
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