Kalifah AgaNaga has dropped a bold claim: artists-turned-politicians are the real power players behind Uganda’s proposed copyright reforms!
Kalifah AgaNaga has dropped a bold claim: artists-turned-politicians are the real power players behind Uganda’s proposed copyright reforms!
Speaking candidly during an interview with Galaxy TV’s Rewind team, Kalifah didn’t mince his words. According to the fiery performer, it’s not just industry bodies doing the heavy lifting, it’s artists who’ve stepped into the political arena who’ve shaken things up enough to get lawmakers’ attention.
“The UNMF has done a great job, but artists like us in politics are the real force behind passing this copyright bill,” he declared.
Kalifah, never one to shy away from controversy, revealed that his own political ambitions are deeply tied to the struggle for artists’ rights. During his parliamentary bid for the 2026 elections, he made stronger copyright protections a central pillar of his campaign, vowing to fight for creatives who’ve long felt sidelined.
Behind the scenes, he says, frustration has been boiling over. When explaining his motives to his party, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), AgaNaga pointed to a growing trend: more musicians are entering politics because they’re tired of being ignored.
At the heart of the issue lies a deeper grievance, one Kalifah believes many leaders still don’t understand. For years, artists have struggled to be taken seriously as professionals, despite their massive cultural and economic impact.
Now, with the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025 gaining traction, the tables may finally be turning.
Enock Mugabi aka iWitness is a Journalist, Seasoned Writer and Music Analyst with a passion for sports.
Connect with him on social media using the links below in bio.
