Ugandan stand-up comedian Dr Hillary Okello has found himself at the center of an online debate about the role of comedians in politics and society. Over the years, Okello has steadily grown his craft, building a loyal following that appreciates his sharp wit, organic delivery, and socially aware humor. But this week, a section of fans questioned whether his increasing focus on political commentary is taking him away from what they consider “pure comedy.”
The discussion was sparked by a post on X (formerly Twitter) from a one Allan, who remarked that Dr Hillary was “the best comedian until he started concentrating more on politics rather than comedy.” Allan’s comment followed the announcement that Okello would be among the performers at President Yoweri Museveni’s first rally at Kololo Airstrip.
Bro @DrHilaryOkello was a good and the best Comedian not until he started giving politics more time than concentrating on Comedy Contents. pic.twitter.com/tNIxAAKuTB
— LoP Orlando (@AllanShaka10) September 23, 2025
Okello was quick to respond, offering a thoughtful defense of his comedic direction. “Thank you Allan for this.?? I appreciate your remarks… however, as stand-up comedians, we are artists and one of the central purposes of art is to mirror society. Through stories, jokes and performance, we reflect the realities, struggles, joys, and absurdities of the world around us,” he wrote.
He went on to explain that comedy has always been a powerful medium for addressing sensitive issues, including politics. “Comedy gives us a unique way to break down complex or sensitive issues, and spark conversations that people might otherwise avoid. Laughter lowers defenses, so political jokes can make audiences think critically while still being entertained,” he added.
Thank you Allan for this.?? I appreciate your remarks… however, as Stand-up comedians, we are artists & one of the central purposes of art is to mirror society. Through stories, jokes and performance, we reflect the realities, struggles, joys, and absurdities of the world around… https://t.co/uxakkXhSFX
— Dr Hilary Okello (@DrHilaryOkello) September 23, 2025
The debate drew in fellow comedian Emmah Napoleon, who challenged Allan’s critique by pointing out a double standard. “Wait? You praise the likes of Trevor Noah for doing ‘up-to-date’ content then when a Ugandan comedian does the same (politics is a source of up-to-date content) you see it as a problem?” Napoleon posted.
Wait? You praise the likes or Trevor Noah for doing “upto date” content then when a Ugandan comedian does the same (politics is a source of upto date content) you see it as a problem?
— Napoleone Ehmah (@NapoleoneEm) September 23, 2025
For Okello, this moment reflects the wider tension between audience expectations and the evolving role of comedy in society. While some fans prefer lighthearted entertainment, others embrace comedians who use humor as a tool to probe deeper into politics, governance, and everyday struggles. As Uganda’s comedy industry matures, Okello’s stance suggests that political humor may become an even more prominent feature of the stage, sparking both laughter and debate.
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