Father Kateregga Criticizes Musicians at Museveni Rally, Calls Them “Beggars”
MPIGI, Uganda — Father Deogratius Kiibi Kateregga of St. Joseph’s Parish, Mpigi, has sharply criticized musicians who participated in President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s recent campaign rally, describing some of them as “beggars” and “failed artists.”
Speaking during an interview, the outspoken Catholic priest said he was disappointed that several well-known musicians had abandoned their professional dignity in pursuit of handouts at political events.
In a sarcastic but pointed remark, Father Kateregga suggested that such artists should consider enrolling in a “beggars’ course” at a university to improve their skills.
“Failed musicians have also gone to President Museveni’s campaign rally, positioning themselves close to him so they can be seen,” Kateregga said. “There are established artists that we knew, but now they have ditched music and turned to begging. When you look at their future, you wonder. They need to enroll in a beggars’ course to improve their begging skills.”
The priest also contrasted material pursuits with family life, praising musicians who got married during the year, saying personal fulfillment goes beyond money.
“Artists who got hitched this year, you have done me good,” he said. “Everyone needs a sense of belonging. Things that give you money can become empty with time, but physical things that come out of you give fulfillment.”
Father Kateregga’s remarks have sparked debate across social and traditional media, drawing mixed reactions from the public and members of the creative industry. While some have supported his criticism of political patronage, others argue that musicians have the right to participate in political activities of their choice.
The comments add to ongoing discussions about the relationship between politics and the entertainment industry in Uganda, especially during election seasons.
