“I sing where I’m paid” — Ykee Benda fires back at NUP critics over NRM performances

• Ykee Benda says music is his livelihood and not political charity

•  He insists he performs for whoever invites and pays him

• The singer urges NUP supporters to stop attacking musicians over political choices

Ugandan singer Ykee Benda has come out strongly to defend his decision to perform at NRM campaign rallies, following sustained criticism from supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

The singer, who has been appearing at rallies for President Yoweri Museveni, joins other musicians such as Bebe Cool who have faced backlash from sections of the opposition for working with the ruling party.

According to Ykee Benda, critics—particularly supporters of Bobi Wine and the NUP—should stop feeling entitled to musicians’ labor.

 “I am an artist by profession. I sing for whoever invites me and pays me. If your leader can pay me, I will sing for him too,” Ykee Benda said.

He added that he cannot abandon paying work to perform for free, noting that music is a career he has invested in and now depends on to support his family.

The singer revealed that he was invited by fellow musician Bebe Cool to perform for President Museveni, describing it as an opportunity to earn something meaningful.

 “I have a family to take care of. I cannot leave a party that is paying me to go and work for free,” he said.

Ykee Benda further advised his critics to calm down and accept that musicians, like professionals in any field, must earn a living.

“If you cannot afford me, take some tea and relax. I am not willing to work for free from a career I invest in,” he added