Ziza Bafana Joins NRM, Distances Himself from Opposition

Dancehall musician Ziza Bafana has officially crossed to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), ending his long-standing ties with the opposition.

For the last two years, Bafana openly supported Bobi Wine and the National Unity Platform (NUP), often donning red attire to show solidarity. However, speculation about his political loyalty ended over the weekend when he was seen among artists at President Museveni’s music album launch at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

Speaking to the press, Bafana confirmed his decision to align with NRM, saying he appreciates President Museveni’s contributions to the arts and entertainment industry.

In recent years, the NRM government has deliberately reached out to musicians. Through the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), government allocated Shs 33 billion in the 2026/27 budget to the musicians’ SACCO. This fund is meant to provide loans and grants, helping artists strengthen their livelihoods and careers.

Bafana now joins a list of entertainers who have openly identified with the ruling party, including Bebe Cool, Eddy Kenzo, Dr. Jose Chameleone, Alien Skin, Ronald Mayinja, Catherine Kusasira among others.

On the other hand, the opposition NUP continues to enjoy support from popular musicians such as King Saha, A Pass, Elijah Kitaka, Azawi, Spice Diana, Fik Fameica, Nubian Li, Big Eye, Nina Roz and Dax Vibes who frequently perform at opposition rallies and events.

Ziza Bafana’s defection highlights the deepening split in Uganda’s entertainment industry, where musicians are increasingly choosing political sides depending on where they see opportunity and support