Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Robert, the President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, did not mince words when expressing his discontent with musicians who depend on government handouts and envelopes for survival. Bobi Wine, 40, voiced his concerns while addressing mourners at the burial of the late former Rubaga South MP, Hon. Kato Lubwama, in Nkozi, Mpigi District.
While Bobi Wine acknowledged that he was not close friends with Hon. Kato, he acknowledged the impact the former MP had on him and other artists who joined politics. He emphasized that their intention was not to amass wealth but to participate in shaping policies that govern daily life. Bobi Wine mentioned that he assigned Hon. Hillary Kiyaga, also known as Dr. Hilderman, to advocate for a copyright law that would safeguard the rights of artists and enable them to benefit from their hard work. Drawing a comparison with the thriving Nigerian film industry, Bobi Wine highlighted the significance of having a copyright law in place.
The NUP leader condemned musicians who rely on government handouts, labeling them as “beggars.” Instead, he urged them to follow the example of the late Kato Lubwama, who utilized his resources to develop the film industry. Bobi Wine mentioned that Hon. Kato Lubwama had constructed the Royal Theatre on Martin Road, which unfortunately faced demolition by court bailiffs. Despite the government’s lack of support for Hon. Kato and fellow artistes like Ssembuule, Bobi Wine criticized the regime for seemingly favoring some individuals, such as Roko, over others. He urged musicians to adopt Hon. Kato Lubwama’s passion for unifying the entertainment industry as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Despite their differences, Bobi Wine expressed a desire to be friends with Hon. Kato Lubwama in the afterlife, extending his condolences and that of his family and party.
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