TAKEAWAYS

• GIPA Entertainment says promoters failed to clear contractual payments before travel.
• The label alleges its representative was wrongfully detained during what it calls a civil dispute.
• Social media remains divided as both the Ugandan promoters and South African camp blame each other.

The controversy surrounding the failed performance of South African amapiano stars Scotts Maphuma and CowBoii in Uganda has intensified after their management, GIPA Entertainment, released an official statement and WhatsApp conversations detailing what they describe as a contractual dispute gone wrong.

The artists had been booked to headline the Linus Tattoo Party at Lugogo’s Millennium Grounds on May 15, an event heavily marketed to Ugandan fans. However, the much-anticipated appearance never happened, sparking outrage online and accusations from promoters.

In a statement dated May 17, GIPA Entertainment argued that the promoter failed to honour payment timelines outlined in the signed agreement.

According to the label, “Section 5.1.2 states that the 50% balance is payable 14 days prior to the engagement. This was not done by the Promoter.”

The management further maintained that the initial 50 percent deposit was non-refundable under the contract because it secured the artists’ availability and allowed promoters to use their image for marketing.

Released WhatsApp screenshots appear to show prolonged negotiations between the promoter and the South African team over outstanding balances, visas, hotels and flights.

One message from the label side reads: “I don’t have visas, flights, balance, hotels.” Another states, “Artist won’t fly without his money.”

The screenshots also reveal disagreements over travel arrangements, with the promoter requesting economy travel for the entourage while the label insisted that Scotts Maphuma travel business class in line with their rider.

GIPA additionally accused Ugandan organisers of escalating a civil matter through police involvement, claiming their representative was detained despite providing proof of payment transfers.

The latest statement comes days after Linus Tattoo Party organisers publicly insisted they had fulfilled their obligations and even accommodated additional financial and travel requests in efforts to save the show.

Meanwhile, social media has remained heated, with fans split between blaming promoters for delayed payments and faulting the artists’ camp for failing to communicate directly with ticket buyers.

For now, GIPA says it is “exploring all legal routes to rectify this matter and ensure justice is served,” leaving the dispute far from over.