By Allen Kisakye
Artiste Philip Luswata has come out to talk about the mismanagement of the Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC) has faced under the leadership of Francis Peter Ojede.
Luswata, the founder of Theatre Factory also told President Museveni that that one of the reasons why some musicians are against him is Ojede.
In a Facebook rant that was posted on Thursday night by comedian Bugingo Hannington , Luswata says that for the past six years, all Ojede has done is watch the National Theatre deteriorate.
“See this wall?” he asked pointing at the wall in the theatre’s foyer. “It used to have photos people such as Okot P’Bitek, Robert Serumaga, Byron Kawadwa, (Eridadi) Walakila among others who were monumental to the development of our culture. They are no more.”
“But see,” he says while pointing at the portrait of Ojede next to that of the President. “That man there is the reason this place is a mess. And you Mr President are the one who sent him to us. He is the reason some artistes don’t love you.”
According to the comedian, any young people who want to earn out of drama, dance or music are doomed because with Ojede still at the helm of the National Theatre, nothing will prosper.
This is not the first time Luswata has spoken out against Ojede. In 2016, police blocked a demonstration by the artists protesting government’s proposal to redevelop the facility.
Luswata first staged a one-man demonstration but was arrested and taken to Central Police Station.
Police claimed Luswata had not sought permission from the Inspector General of Police rendering his demo illegal.
Ojede could not be reached for a comment.
Profile
Philip Luswata is an actor, and founder of the Theatre Factory. He has featured in East African top Television series like Makutano Juction and Centre 4.
He has also acted and produced several stage plays, feature films, TV commercials and series, Radio dramas series and plays.
He holds a Diploma in Music dance and drama, Bachelors’ Degree in Drama at Makerere University and a Masters in communication studies which he acquired from Leeds University, UK.
Luswata is currently a lecturer of theatre at Kyambogo University.
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