Ugandan music promoters have imposed a 90-day performance ban on two popular musicians, Alien Skin and Pallaso, following a series of violent incidents.
The ban was announced by Minister Balaam Barugahara, who leads the promoters.
“We have been receiving complaints from parents about the violent behaviour of some of these artists,” Minister Barugahara said.
“I personally received calls from distressed parents whose children were beaten so badly that they nearly lost their lives. This is unacceptable and we must take action.”
Minister Barugahara expressed concerns that efforts to mediate between the two artists had been unsuccessful.
“I spoke to Pallaso, and he promised to cease fire. However, I haven’t heard from Alien Skin,” he said.
Minister Barugahara warned that the promoters would not tolerate any further violence.
“We must safeguard the lives of our fans and ensure that music events remain safe spaces for everyone. This is a wake-up call for all artists to uphold discipline and professionalism.”
He also pledged to dismantle criminal gangs terrorising concert-goers.
“On behalf of the government, we shall do whatever possible to dismantle the criminal gangs, the gangs that have been terrorising people during concerts, the gangs that grab people’s phones, the gangs that beat people. Those gangs will be dismantled with the support of promoters and with the support of venue owners.”
Minister Barugahara revealed that he had spoken to the Inspector General of Police, who had promised to investigate the matter thoroughly.
“Whoever participated in these criminal acts will be arrested and held accountable,” he said.
