By Aggrey Baba
After years of silence following his exit from active politics, former Prime Minister, and Museveni’s blue eyed man, Amama Mbabazi has reemerged, not as a political warrior, but a quiet ambassador for national unity through the power of music.
Speaking journalist, Nelson Muhoozi of Newvision, at the recently concluded Martyrs Choral Festival, Mbabazi stunned many with his deeply personal reflections, revealing a passionate belief that music could heal Uganda in ways politics has failed.
Once one of Uganda’s most powerful figures, and a founding member of the NRM, former Attorney General, Security Minister, and Prime Minister, Mbabazi, now appears more interested in choirs than campaigns.
“Music brings people together. It heals. It speaks to the soul in ways that politics never could,” he said during the festival, which drew choirs from across the country to sing songs of faith, peace, and resilience.
Mbabazi revealed that he has always loved music, even though politics forced him to bury that passion for decades. “I had dreams, even of acting in Hollywood, but life took another turn. The injustices around me pushed me into politics instead,” he said.
At the festival, he was moved by the sight of Christians from different denominations, Catholics, Anglicans, and Pentecostals, singing in harmony. “Growing up, those divisions were real. But seeing people sing together today was like watching a country rediscover its heart.”
He believes the message of the martyrs, courage, conviction, and sacrifice, goes far beyond religion. “They stood up for truth. That message applies to all of us, whether in politics or in the choir,” he said.
Mbabazi promised continued support for the festival, calling it “a necessary reminder that Uganda is stronger when it sings in one voice.” He believes unity is more urgent than ever before, as Ugandans grow increasingly divided along political and social lines.
“In times like these, we must remember that when the drums beat together, the dance is beautiful,” he said, borrowing a proverb to drive his point home.
For a man once known for political strategy and statecraft, Mbabazi’s quiet return through the arts is surprising, yet refreshing. His words now carry the tone of a man who has seen it all and chosen peace over power.
As he slowly finds his rhythm again, he leaves the nation with a final word of wisdom, that “Even a lion, after many battles, rests in the shade and listens to the birds.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
