Gen. Salim Saleh has expressed frustration with Uganda’s music industry, accusing musicians of hindering his efforts in northern Uganda.
In a statement, the senior government official voiced his concerns about the constant stream of artists visiting him, claiming it has disrupted his work schedule.
“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, the afternoon, I am meeting Ragga Dee, in the evening,” he lamented.
This isn’t the first time Gen. Saleh has raised issues with musicians. He previously expressed concern over the growing number of artists heading to Gulu, especially during the festive season.
In a handwritten letter dated November 17, Gen. Saleh addressed Eddy Kenzo, the President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives. He urged Kenzo to manage the influx of musicians in Gulu during Christmas festivities.
“Presidential Advisor, creatives and President Uganda National Musicians Associations, please handle musicians who are flocking to Gulu for Christmas festivities shows,” the letter read. “They are interfering with my work in northern Uganda.”
The leadership of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), a program headed by Gen. Saleh, also urged stakeholders in the creative industry, particularly the UNMF and the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA), to align their activities with national development goals.
The influx of musicians and comedians to Gen. Saleh’s residence in Te-dam Cell, Bardege Parish, Layibi-Bardege Division, Gulu City, has sparked rumors. Many believe these visits are motivated by the pursuit of financial support.
