Police rescind ban on King Saha music show

Musician Manisul Ssemanda, known by his stage name as King Saha. PHOTO/ MICHAEL KAKUMIRIZI
What you need to know:
- The Thursday ban had stirred debate on social media with many commentators accusing police of unfairness. Some claimed their decision was politically motivated given that Mr Ssemanda is a sworn supporter of musician turned politician, Mr Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine who challenged President Museveni in the 2021 general election.
Police have rescinded their earlier order cancelling a highly-publicized music show of singer Manisul Ssemanda, known by his stage name as King Saha.
In a Friday morning statement, police spokesperson, Mr Kituuma Rusoke said the show will go on this evening as planned at Cricket Oval Lugogo, Kampala but the pavilion was out of bounds.
“On January 23, 2025, the Uganda Police Force halted a local music event planned for January 24, 2025, organized by Mr Galabuzi Denis Benon of Umoja Management LTD. Today, a joint security team, along with the event organizers and venue managers, have met at the cricket oval to re-evaluate how the event can proceed while adhering to previously recommended safety measures,” Mr Kituuma said.
Following the said meeting, it was decided that the event would take place as scheduled at the cricket oval.
“However, use of the pavilion will be strictly prohibited due to its structural condition, which poses a risk to revelers” he added.
The Thursday ban had stirred debate on social media with many commentators accusing police of unfairness. Some claimed their decision was politically motivated given that Mr Ssemanda is a sworn supporter of musician turned politician, Mr Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine who challenged President Museveni in the 2021 general election.
Mr Kyagulanyi who was banned from singing at music shows in Uganda booked a table at Mr Ssemanda’s show.
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