Ugandans are abuzz with reactions following the appointment of singer Edirisa Musuuza, popularly known as Eddy Kenzo, as the senior presidential adviser on creatives. The announcement, made Wednesday evening, has sparked a heated debate on social media regarding the President’s criteria for appointing advisers.
Critics have raised concerns about Kenzo’s academic qualifications and questioned whether he possesses the necessary expertise and courage to provide sound advice on policies for the creative industry. Some have also expressed doubts about his ability to effectively meet with and advise the President, citing past complaints from other advisers who struggled to access the President. Among them are musicians Mark Bugembe (Bucha Man) and Catherine Kusasira.
There are also suggestions that this appointment signifies a lowering of standards for senior presidential advisory roles. However, some Ugandans have welcomed the news, believing Kenzo’s appointment is well-deserved.
Anthony Natif commented on X (formerly Twitter), defending Kenzo’s appointment: “He’s not being nominated to head the government’s neuroscience program. He’s being appointed to advise on a sector where he has proven himself as unparalleled.” Natif further argued that evaluating Kenzo based on his academic degrees is irrelevant to the role, and urged Ugandans to commend the President for his choice and hope that he listens to his new adviser.
Yvonne Turiho on X remarked: “If you think Eddy Kenzo isn’t educated enough for his achievements, you fail to recognize that self-education can be the greatest form of learning.”
Many in the creative industry view Kenzo’s appointment as a positive step. Herbert Ssegujja, a stand-up comedian known as Teacher Mpamire, expressed his support on Facebook: “At last, Uganda has a senior Presidential Adviser on Creatives. This is a significant milestone for the creative community in Uganda.”
Musician Azawi also hopes that Kenzo’s new role will pave the way for the establishment of a full-fledged creative ministry.
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