The drama within the Ugandan music industry has reached a new boiling point as Lilian Mbabazi stepped forward to defend the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) against scathing allegations made by MC Kats.
The conflict centers on the health and financial support of singer Fille Mutoni, who has reportedly been battling health issues and personal struggles recently.
In early January 2026, a visibly frustrated MC Kats took to social media and various media outlets to blast the UNMF leadership, specifically naming President Eddy Kenzo. Kats claimed:
Missing Funds: He alleged that while the Federation claimed to have allocated UGX 15 million for Fille’s medical bills and rehabilitation, he (as her manager and father of her child) only received a fraction of it—or in some versions of his rant, nothing at all.
“Buffet” Allegations: Kats accused the Federation leadership of “eating” government money intended for struggling artists while leaving musicians like Fille to suffer.
Lilian Mbabazi, a respected veteran and a member of the Federation, dismissed Kats’ claims as misleading. Her response focused on the following:
Mbabazi indicated that the Federation has provided support, but emphasized that such aid is often managed through specific institutional channels or direct payments to service providers (like hospitals or rehab centers) rather than being handed over as cash to individuals.
She urged Kats to stop using social media to settle Federation grievances, suggesting that his outbursts damage the reputation of the very organization trying to professionalize the industry.
Mbabazi hinted that the Federation has records of the assistance provided, contradicting the narrative that Fille was abandoned.
This clash highlights the ongoing tension between the UNMF (led by Eddy Kenzo, Sheebah, and Pallaso) and critics who believe the Federation is a “government project” that doesn’t benefit the average artist. Since its formation, the UNMF has received significant government funding, making every expenditure a subject of intense public scrutiny.
