Ugandan singer Kabako is not holding back — again. The energetic performer has come out guns blazing, calling for Eddy Kenzo’s arrest over what he calls the “scam” that is the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF).
Speaking after his electrifying set at Comedy Store, Kabako told journalists that the Federation, which Kenzo leads, was created in the wrong way and is now misusing public funds. In his words, “It was a very big mistake to start up a federation with musicians who don’t belong to any associations.”
Yes, you read that right — Kabako wants Kenzo behind bars for what he sees as mismanagement and manipulation.
“Eddy Kenzo needs to be arrested immediately,” Kabako insisted. “It’s like going to university without passing through primary and secondary school. If I were a lawyer, I’d take on this case!”
According to Kabako, for any musician to be part of the federation, they must first belong to a formal association — something he says isn’t being enforced at all in the UNMF. He believes the entire federation was rushed, poorly structured, and serves only a few individuals rather than the music industry as a whole.
But that’s not all.
Kabako also took issue with how and where the Federation operates. Referring to the weekly Jam Sessions held at Allure Hotel, he questioned whether a hotel is the right place to lead a national music movement.
“These people are ruling the industry from hotels. Is that how it’s supposed to be? Of all places, a hotel?” Kabako asked with visible frustration.
The Uganda National Musicians Federation was officially launched in May 2023, with Eddy Kenzo as president and Sheebah among its top cabinet members. While the Federation claimed to unify artists and promote Ugandan music, critics like Kabako believe it has become an exclusive club for a few elites, leaving out the majority of struggling musicians.
Kabako has long been vocal about his opposition to UNMF, but this latest rant might be the most explosive yet. Whether authorities will act on his call is another story — but one thing’s for sure, this saga is far from over.
What do you think? Should musicians be forced to join associations before joining a federation? Is Kabako being real or just looking for attention? Sound off in the comments below!
