TAKEAWAYS

• Cindy Sanyu says musicians should not be punished for their spouses’ political views.
• Vinka recently faced boycott calls linked to her husband Wita’s political involvement.
• Cindy warns politics could eventually influence even friendships and romantic relationships.

Dancehall singer and Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) president Cindy Sanyu has warned musicians about the growing impact of politics on Uganda’s entertainment industry, saying she had earlier predicted that political divisions would eventually hurt artists and their careers.

Politics has increasingly found its way into Uganda’s music industry, particularly since musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine entered active politics. The trend has resurfaced in recent weeks, with musicians facing criticism based on their political associations and those of people close to them.

Recently, Vinka’s concert at the Lugogo Cricket Oval attracted calls from a section of NUP supporters on social media to boycott the event. Dax Vibes, Bobi Wine’s brother and Vinka’s collaborator, also failed to appear at the concert despite rehearsing with the singer.

Cindy said the situation was an example of the dangers she had warned about.

“Vinka did not deserve this. She has hustled her way to the top, and what her husband does should not affect her career in any way.”

Vinka’s husband, Wita, has been involved in politics after campaigning for an MP on an NRM ticket in Isingiro District. His political involvement has consequently been linked to calls to distance oneself from Vinka.

Cindy argued that musicians should not be punished for the political choices of their spouses or relatives, especially when their music has traditionally brought people together.

“When Vinka has been performing on concerts that unite all people, people have been turning up. But when she needs them the most, they decide to boycott her.”

She also pointed to similar calls surrounding Lydia Jazmine’s concert, warning that political divisions could eventually affect even personal relationships.

Cindy said she loves her husband, Joel Okoye, and that his political views are his personal responsibility as an adult.

“Soon people are even going to start dating based on political colors, and that is totally wrong.”

The UMA president urged Ugandans to separate musicians from the political positions of people around them and allow artists to build their careers without political victimisation.