‘How can you be inspired by Kenyans who torched Parliament?’ – Eddy Kenzo denounces Uganda’s protests
Ugandan artist and president of the National Musicians Federation, Eddy Kenzo, has explained why he won’t back anti-government demonstrations, despite increasing pressure from fellow musicians and youth activists.
Recently, Kampala has been a focal point for the ‘March 2 Parliament’ protests, which are aimed at addressing corruption and misuse of power within the Ugandan parliament.
Many Ugandan musicians have participated in these protests, encouraging their colleagues to oppose government corruption.
On the other hand, Eddy Kenzo, who is married to Uganda’s Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development, Phiona Nyamutoro, holds a different view.
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In a frank discussion with Kookie Promotions YouTube channel, Kenzo criticized the protesting musicians, implying that they may not fully grasp the consequences of their actions.
“When you grow older, you speak less because you have enough experience. It’s good that Azawi is passing through where we have been. There is a lot we know that she has yet to experience because we have been here for a while,” Kenzo remarked.
Kenzo stressed that although he denounces corruption, he cannot, in good faith, encourage people to take to the streets. He highlighted that, as a public figure, his audience includes individuals who may be against the protests.
“Do I look like someone who enjoys corruption? I don’t, and I condemn corruption. But some of these people are just using this period as an avenue to express their other personal issues,” he explained.
Kenya’s protests
Kenzo also criticized the act of drawing influence from protests in neighboring Kenya, noting that the protesters set fire to the parliament and vandalized businesses.
“In Uganda, I cannot incite violence or support demonstrations because some people are just rioting because they were inspired by Kenya.
“How can you be inspired by Kenyans who torched the parliament and people’s businesses? If she (referring to pro-protest musician Azawi) wants to demonstrate, she doesn’t have to ask me to tell her first. Let her go.
“So if Anitah (Parliament Speaker – Ugandan protesters have been calling for her resignation) retires, what next? I am not stupid. I know that some want to demonstrate but some do not want it, and I serve both groups. I cannot come out and ask people to protest, I cannot promote that,” Eddy Kenzo said.
Museveni
Kenzo’s remarks follow a strong declaration from President Yoweri Museveni, made on July 25, 2024, in which he addressed the nation in response to recent protests.
The demonstrations, which began on July 23, 2024, have sparked considerable concern and debate.
Museveni asserted that the protests, spearheaded by Gen Z on July 23, 2024, were influenced by external forces and were motivated by negative intentions.
Eddy Kenzo’s position underscores a notable split within the Ugandan music community regarding the involvement of artists in political issues.
As the discussion unfolds, Kenzo remains resolute in his view that his duty encompasses all Ugandans, irrespective of their opinions on the protests.
‘How can you be inspired by Kenyans who torched Parliament?’ – Eddy Kenzo denounces Uganda’s protests
