The Speaker of Parliament, Anitah Annet Among, has delivered a sharp critique of Ugandan entertainers seeking political office, warning the public not to confuse popularity with political capability.
Speaking during a recent public engagement, Among took aim at opposition figures with musical backgrounds—an apparent reference to Bobi Wine and other artist-turned-politicians—saying that musical fame does not equate to political vision or governance skills.
“Just because people dance to your music on the streets, you think you can remove President Museveni from power?” she asked rhetorically. “You believe that being a Rasta and having popular music means people will still support you politically. Don’t let them confuse you with music. Yes, we can enjoy their songs, but they have no political vision,” she added.
Her comments appear to be a direct response to the ongoing influence of opposition leaders who have used their celebrity status to mobilize political support, especially among youth and urban voters.
Among emphasized the need for voters to look beyond entertainment and assess leaders based on their policies, experience, and vision for Uganda’s future. “We must choose leaders who understand the issues and have the ability to deliver, not those who rely on catchy lyrics,” she said.
This latest remark underscores the growing tension between Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the opposition, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP), whose leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) rose to prominence through his music career.
Analysts see Among’s statement as part of a broader effort by the NRM to reinforce its grip on power ahead of the 2026 general elections, especially among the younger electorate that has been increasingly drawn to opposition messaging delivered through pop culture.
