Eddy Kenzo, President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), has addressed criticism over his absence at Jose Chameleone’s recent homecoming celebration, explaining that he had prior commitments in West Nile.
Chameleone, one of the founding members of the federation, recently expressed disappointment in both Kenzo and the UNMF secretariat for not showing up or sending representation to his welcome event.
Speaking openly, Chameleone said he felt deeply hurt by the lack of support from a body he helped establish, especially given his role in laying its foundation.
He mentioned that he had initially asked his brother Pallaso who also serves as the federation’s vice president to speak on his behalf regarding the matter. However, Pallaso reportedly declined to do so.
Despite the absence of UNMF representatives, Chameleone was warmly received at Entebbe International Airport on Saturday morning by a large crowd of fans, a few fellow artists, and family members, including Pallaso.
In response to the backlash, Eddy Kenzo told reporters that he was out of town at the time, attending an important event in West Nile tied to President Museveni’s recent visit.
He explained that the occasion was centered around peace celebrations in the region, and he had gone to assist in organizing it alongside fellow artist Fifi.
“I was away in West Nile because there was an event celebrating the bringing of peace to the region. I went there to help Fifi with the organization .I tried to connect with Pallaso and the UNMF secretariat to find a way to handle the situation, but unfortunately, it didn’t work out. We’ll definitely do better next time.”Kenzo explained during a TV interview.
The Uganda National Musicians Federation was established to unite artists and address industry challenges especially long-standing issues like copyright enforcement. Kenzo’s promise to improve future coordination signals a continued effort to strengthen unity within Uganda’s music community.
