Ugandan music star Eddy Kenzo has broken his silence on reports claiming that fellow artist Pallaso was banned from the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) over political affiliations — setting the record straight once and for all.
The Sitya Loss hitmaker, who serves as UNMF President, insists that Pallaso remains an active member of the federation, despite ongoing rumors and criticism linking the organization to political bias.
“Pallaso is still a member of the federation,” Kenzo confirmed. “Just because he is supporting who he wants doesn’t take away his rights as a Ugandan. He has the right to support whoever he supports as long as he does it peacefully — like he is doing.”
Political Rift Rumors Shake Uganda’s Music Industry
For weeks, the entertainment industry has been buzzing with speculation about internal conflicts within the UNMF. Several artists have publicly accused Kenzo and his executive team of turning the musicians’ federation into a political tool, favoring certain ideologies while sidelining others.
Reports even surfaced that some artists supporting the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) were allegedly banned or discouraged from participating in federation activities — with Pallaso’s name topping that list.
However, Kenzo has now firmly dismissed those claims, emphasizing that UNMF remains non-partisan and inclusive.
Kenzo Clarifies: “We Only Oppose Sabotage, Not Opinions”
In his statement, Kenzo drew a clear line between personal political beliefs and destructive activism within the industry.
He explained that while every artist is free to support any political party, problems only arise when politics is used as a weapon to divide or sabotage others.
“The people we don’t align with,” Kenzo said, “are those who intend to sabotage others using political sentiments.”
This statement appeared to address growing tensions among artists who have defected from UNMF, claiming the federation no longer serves collective industry interests.
Pallaso’s Calm Stance Wins Kenzo’s Praise
Kenzo went on to commend Pallaso for handling himself “peacefully and respectfully” despite the political noise.
He noted that Pallaso’s conduct has been exemplary, contrasting it with what he described as “rogue” behavior from others who use political disagreements to stir chaos within the music community.
“Pallaso has handled himself peacefully,” Kenzo said. “He is always welcome. He’s an example of how to stand firm in your beliefs without disrespecting others.”
The statement not only reinforces Pallaso’s standing within the federation but also highlights Kenzo’s ongoing effort to position UNMF as a professional, unity-driven body that transcends partisan lines.
Inside the Federation Tensions
The Uganda National Musicians Federation was launched to protect artists’ welfare, promote professionalism, and push for better rights and structures in the creative industry.
However, in recent months, the group has been rocked by political accusations and public defections, with some big names — including opposition-leaning musicians — walking away in protest.
Critics argue that Kenzo’s leadership has leaned too close to government interests, while his supporters counter that he’s simply working with whoever can deliver progress for Ugandan artists.
A Call for Unity in the Music Industry
Kenzo’s remarks serve as both a clarification and a plea for unity in an industry often divided by politics and ego. He urged fellow musicians to focus on collaboration, business growth, and talent development instead of political rivalries.
“At the end of the day, music is bigger than politics,” a source close to the federation commented. “Kenzo wants artists to see beyond divisions and think about how to build the industry together.”
The federation continues to roll out new programs aimed at improving artist welfare, including royalty management systems, mentorship programs, and performance rights structures — moves that Kenzo believes will ultimately elevate Ugandan music regionally and globally.
Fans React: Mixed Emotions Over Kenzo’s Statement
Fans online have shared mixed reactions following Kenzo’s defense of Pallaso. Some praised the Big Talent boss for taking a mature, unifying stance, while others questioned the federation’s neutrality.
“Kenzo is showing real leadership by defending Pallaso,” one fan tweeted.
“We’ve seen too much politics in the music industry. Time to focus on the art,” another commented.
Despite the controversy, both Kenzo and Pallaso continue to dominate Uganda’s airwaves — and their mutual respect seems to be restoring hope for a more united entertainment industry.
Do you agree with Eddy Kenzo’s take on politics in the music industry?
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