General Salim Saleh Akandwanaho, the Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs and the head of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), has issued a firm warning to musicians and artists in Uganda.
He urged them not to visit him in Gulu, especially during the holidays, as their presence disrupts his work.
Artists Urged to Follow Protocol
In a direct message to the Presidential Adviser on Arts and Culture, Edriisa Musuuza (commonly known as Eddy Kenzo), Gen. Saleh expressed his frustration with the large number of artists flocking to Gulu during holiday seasons.
The General emphasized that these visits hinder his ability to perform his duties effectively.
To address this issue, Gen. Saleh advised musicians to follow proper channels when seeking his attention.
He urged them to work through their official leader, Edriisa Musuuza, the head of the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA).
Divided Leadership Among Artists
Despite this guidance, some artists are hesitant to comply. Uganda’s music industry has been plagued by leadership conflicts, with artists divided into different factions.
Many musicians do not recognize UMA or its leadership under Eddy Kenzo, making coordination a challenge.
These divisions raise concerns about whether the General’s message will be effectively implemented, as not all artists feel represented by UMA.
OWC Spokesperson Speaks Out
Captain Wilson Kato Agaba, the spokesperson for Operation Wealth Creation, echoed Gen. Saleh’s sentiments.
He highlighted that proper organization and communication through UMA would streamline the interaction between artists and the General.
Gen. Saleh’s message is clear: musicians must respect his time and adhere to structured protocols.
As the holiday season approaches, artists are encouraged to resolve internal leadership conflicts to ensure smoother communication with key stakeholders like Gen. Saleh and Operation Wealth Creation.
By respecting these boundaries, artists can foster better collaboration and avoid disrupting the work of national importance.