There’s no denying that being an entertainer here in East Africa is a direct ticket to a political seat.
As a matter of fact, there are a number of singers that currently hold elective MCA and MP positions.
One of the most notable MPs around that has had an illustrious singing career is Starehe MP Charles Njagua
And if that’s not enough, reports coming in are that Uganda’s own Valu Valu hitmaker Joseph Mayanja, known to many as Jose Chameleone will be vying for a political seat in Uganda come 2021.
The singer hopes to become the next Kampala City Lord Mayor.
If indeed he vies and wins, he will be the second biggest Ugandan musician to successfully join politics after Bobi Wine.
Which begs the question; how do East African artists successfully transition into politics?
Their Music Campaigns For Them
If you’ve had hit song after hit song, then one of the things you realize as an artist is that the biggest crowd that associates with your brand is the youth!
And in East African countries, the youth make up the largest voting block in the region.
For example, do you know its easier for Lenny the Goon of the Ochungulo Family to win an MCA seat right now in Kasarani than some rich pompous businessman?
That is if there was no corruption involved!
They Have the Financial Power to do So
It’s only recently that music became a lucrative venture for artists thanks to all the shows and promotions being held left, right and center.
Hence, some of the top artists such as Nameless are able to make a decent living from their music; and maybe even put some money aside for running a decent campaign!
They rub Shoulders with the Elite
Last but not least, East African musicians rub shoulders with the creme de la creme of society.
This enables them to not only get sufficient funding, but make a name for themselves via association