The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) has issued a strong appeal to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to stop the release of an upcoming music video called Dozi by popular artist Gereson Wabuyi alias Gravity Omutujju.
The video, currently in production, reportedly features scenes where Omutujju wears a clinical coat and stethoscope holding a lady who acted as a patient but in an abusive and immoral way, a portrayal that has sparked significant concern among medical professionals.
Dr. Herbert Luswata, President of the UMA, voiced the association’s apprehension in a statement. “We demand that the entertainment industry ceases misusing our clinical coats and stethoscopes as this undermines the professionalism of our medical community and erodes public trust,” he said.
The UMA argues that the depiction of medical attire in non-medical contexts could trivialize the significance and respect associated with the medical profession. According to Dr. Luswata, such portrayals can lead to a diminished perception of the rigorous training and dedication required to don these symbols of healthcare.
The association maintains that while artistic expression is valuable, it should not come at the cost of undermining the integrity and trust of essential professions.
“The actions seen therein also can mean that this is what doctors do to their patients which can make many men fear sending their wives to hospitals, we love his music but this was too much,” he added.
The call to action by the UMA underscores a broader concern about the representation of professional attire in media and its potential impact on public perception.
Gravity Omutujju, known for his influential presence in the Ugandan music scene, has not yet commented on the UMA’s request or the status of the music video’s release. Meanwhile, some of Gravity’s fans have rubbished UMA’s appeal urging them to better advocate for their pay rise instead of attacking the Art Industry.
As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen how the UCC will respond to the UMA’s appeal and whether there will be any modifications to the video’s content.
Nevertheless, the incident has sparked a wider conversation about the responsibilities of artists in portraying professional symbols and the need for sensitivity towards the implications of their work.
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