Police, RDCs to vet Christmas music shows

 Gen. Kale Kayihura with Tony Sempijja and Fred Ssebaale. Photo by Emmanuel Luganda

Police, music promoters and Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) will verify musicians performing this festive season in their respective localities.

This is intended to reduce chaos caused by musicians failing to perform at venues they were intended to execute due to tight schedules, the Inspector General of Police, Gen. Kale Kayihura has said.

 "I am tired of gunshots and destruction of property because a musician has not turned up to perform," Kayihura said.

Addressing music promoters and mangers on Thursday at Police headquarters in Kampala, Kayihura urged them to have confirmation letters from the musicians' managers for performance.

According to Kayihura, the verification will be carried out by Uganda Music Promoters and Venue Owners Network (UMP-NET) together with District Police Commander (DPC), Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Town Clerk and other stakeholders.

Kayihura called upon music promoters and revellers to be vigilant warning that terrorist might take advantage of the season and the excitement to wreak havoc.

"You should be on alert. Do thorough check-ups for everybody who accesses the venue," Kayihura urged.

Tony Sempijja, Coordinator Uganda Music Promoters and Venue Owners Network (UMP-NET) called on artistes to book shows which they will be able to perform.

 "You can't book a show in Mbale and another in Gulu on the same day. It's not possible," he said.