CMP Publications – August 21, 2024
In a pointed critique released today by Clinton Mirrors Ampaire, A prominent political activist, the Just appointment of musician Eddy Kenzo as Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives by President Yoweri Museveni has been described as yet another example of the Ugandan government’s cynical manipulation of power. In his statement, Clinton sharply criticized Museveni’s long-standing tactic of appointing high-profile figures as presidential advisors, arguing that this strategy has led to an ineffective and bloated governance system that serves more to entrench Museveni’s power than to benefit the Ugandan people.
“President Museveni’s appointment of Eddy Kenzo is not about empowering the creative industry,” Clinton asserted. “It’s about co-opting influential figures to neutralize any potential dissent. This is a tactic Museveni has perfected over the years—offering titles and superficial recognition to draw potential critics closer to the regime.”
Clinton’s remarks, reported by CMP Publications, highlight a broader pattern observed in Museveni’s administration. The activist detailed how similar appointments in the past have served as political tools rather than meaningful contributions to governance. These appointments, according to Clinton, are often designed to placate potential opposition by giving them a stake in the government, effectively silencing their voices in matters of national concern.
“Museveni has been using this tactic for decades,” Clinton continued. “By appointing musicians, former opposition politicians, and even religious leaders as presidential advisors, he creates a false sense of inclusivity. But these appointments rarely translate into real influence or power for the appointees. Instead, they become symbols of a failed government that prioritizes loyalty over competence.”
The activist’s critique did not stop at the inefficacy of these appointments. He went on to argue that this strategy has broader implications for the country’s development. By focusing on symbolic gestures rather than substantive policy changes, Museveni’s government has allowed critical sectors, like the creative industry, to stagnate. “Eddy Kenzo’s appointment will do little to address the systemic challenges facing Uganda’s creatives. Instead, it will likely serve to further entrench a regime more interested in maintaining its grip on power than in fostering genuine cultural or economic development,” Clinton stated.
Clinton’s statement reflects a growing frustration among activists and civil society organizations in Uganda, who see Museveni’s strategy as a way to distract from the government’s failures. “These appointments create headlines, but they don’t create change. Uganda needs leaders who are appointed based on merit and who have the power and resources to effect real change—not figureheads who are used to maintain the status quo,” Clinton emphasized.
In closing, Clinton Mirrors Ampaire called on Ugandans to see through the facade of these appointments and to demand more from their government. “We cannot afford to be placated by empty titles and symbolic gestures. It’s time for Ugandans to demand accountability, transparency, and real leadership from those in power.”