Ugandan singer Grenade Official has spoken out to set the record straight on his political stance, clarifying that he is not aligned with any political party despite his appearance at President Yoweri Museveni’s recent album launch.
Grenade Explains His Presence at Museveni’s Album Launch
The event, held to unveil Museveni’s Yoweri album — a project compiled by creatives under the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) — drew several high-profile artists, including Grenade.
While many assumed his presence signaled political support, Grenade insisted it was purely about celebrating progress in the music industry, not endorsing the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“It is possible to separate music from politics. I’m not a politician… I don’t belong to NRM or any political party. But if something is good for my industry, of course I’ll go with that.” — Grenade Official
Music First, Politics Later
Grenade stressed that his focus is and has always been the growth of Uganda’s creative industry. He explained that the ability of artists to present their achievements to the President since the Federation’s formation was a major milestone for the music community.
He further emphasized that artists uniting under the UNMF is not a political maneuver but a collective effort to strengthen the sector, build unity, and secure better opportunities for musicians.
Why Grenade’s Statement Matters
In Uganda, where politics and entertainment often overlap, artists frequently face public scrutiny over their affiliations. Some musicians have openly supported political movements, while others have faced backlash for attending government events.
Grenade’s public clarification reflects a growing sentiment among artists who wish to separate their craft from partisan politics, focusing instead on securing structural support for the music industry.
Fans React Online
Social media quickly lit up with mixed reactions:
- Some fans applauded Grenade for choosing music over politics, praising him for prioritizing unity.
- Others remained skeptical, suggesting that appearing at political events inevitably signals allegiance.
- A third group expressed fatigue, arguing that artists should stay clear of political controversy altogether.
Final Word
Grenade Official has made it clear: his loyalty lies with the music industry, not politics. For him, supporting initiatives that elevate artists is not about political allegiance but about securing a stronger future for Uganda’s creative sector.
Do you think artists can truly separate music from politics? Drop your thoughts below and stay tuned to E Page One for more exclusive updates on Uganda’s entertainment scene.
