Northern Uganda’s celebrated musician and National Resistance Movement (NRM) loyalist, Bosmic Otim, has voiced his frustration after being blocked from performing at two major NRM events — first in Kololo and later in Munyonyo.
The artist, known for his politically charged songs and loyalty to the ruling party, said the repeated denials signal growing internal divisions within the NRM’s entertainment circles.
“I was blocked from performing in Kololo, I was blocked from performing in Munyonyo. Should they block me for the third time — wang kwee na — they are inviting problems for their candidate,” Bosmic warned, referring to the NRM’s presidential flag bearer.
The latest incident occurred at the NRM manifesto launch in Munyonyo, where Bosmic says he was prevented from taking the stage despite being scheduled to perform. Reports from attendees allege that fellow NRM-aligned artist Bebe Cool played a key role in blocking Bosmic from performing. According to witnesses, Bebe Cool allegedly refused to surrender the microphone or music playback controls, leaving Bosmic sidelined.
Insiders suggest the disagreement stemmed from competition for visibility and influence within the NRM’s entertainment front — a space increasingly used by the party to connect with young voters.
The Munyonyo standoff follows a similar incident at Kololo Independence Grounds during the presidential nomination celebrations, where Bosmic claims he was again denied stage access. At the time, the artist remained silent, saying he did not want to “embarrass the party.” However, this second occurrence has prompted him to speak out publicly, warning that continued exclusion could fuel unnecessary divisions.
While both Bosmic Otim and Bebe Cool are known NRM supporters, their rivalry highlights simmering tensions within the party’s creative wing. Observers note that Bebe Cool has long been a dominant figure in NRM entertainment mobilization, often headlining major national events, while other musicians feel sidelined despite their loyalty.
Political analysts warn that silencing or sidelining certain artists could alienate regional supporters, particularly in northern Uganda, where Bosmic enjoys massive popularity. “Bosmic represents a cultural voice for northern Uganda. Blocking him sends the wrong message at a time when inclusivity should be the party’s strength,” said one political commentator.
Bosmic has not announced any official complaint to party leadership but insists he will not stay silent if the trend continues. “They should not mistake my silence for weakness. I have supported the party loyally. But if they block me again, I will respond in my own way,” he said.
The NRM Secretariat has not issued a formal response, and Bebe Cool has yet to comment publicly on the allegations. As Uganda approaches another election cycle, the incident raises questions about unity and fairness within the ruling party’s entertainment mobilization strategy. For now, fans await to see whether NRM leaders will intervene to reconcile the two musicians or risk widening the rift that threatens to weaken cultural support from the north.
