Actor and film director John Segawa has expressed his concern over Bobi Wine's manner of addressing fellow musicians, urging him to adopt a more respectful approach. Segawa, in a recent interview, highlighted Bobi Wine's tendency to speak to artists condescendingly, as if they were his children.
“I wish to help him out because he is a fellow artist; the way he carries himself during his political addresses is demeaning. When he is talking to us, he needs to tone it down,” Segawa said in a recent interview.
Segawa feels compelled to offer guidance to Bobi Wine, acknowledging that while his political messages may be well-intentioned, the tone in which he delivers them has become a contentious issue among artists.
Segawa emphasized that as someone who is considered part of their community, Bobi Wine should approach discussions with artists more peacefully and collaboratively, rather than appearing confrontational.
“He seems like he is barking at artists; like he is ordering around us, yet we consider him to be one of us. He is expected to come in peace and sit at the table and we discuss. That is where the fireworks started,” Segawa explained.
The catalyst for this critique was Bobi Wine's controversial comments made during the funeral of Kato Lubwama in Nkozi.
Over time, artists have taken offense to Bobi Wine's perceived authoritarian attitude, feeling as if he is always issuing orders to them rather than engaging in open dialogue.
Segawa believes that a more diplomatic approach would yield better results.
It is important to note that Bobi Wine recently faced fierce criticism from members of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, led by President Eddy Kenzo. They accused Bobi Wine of likening them to beggars, further fueling the ongoing debate.
Bobi Wine's remarks cautioned artists against accepting handouts from the government, asserting that such acts were intended to divert their attention from pressing issues, such as the delay in passing the Copyright law.