The tension between singer Lil Pazo (Yasin Mukasa) and the Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, reflects a long-standing debate in Uganda regarding “vulgarity” in mainstream music.
As of early 2026, Lil Pazo has remained defiant against proposals to ban his music, particularly his viral hit “Enkudi.
The friction began in late 2024 and intensified throughout 2025 following public statements from Minister Peace Mutuuzo and directives from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
Minister Mutuuzo has been a vocal advocate for censoring songs that she deems “culturally inappropriate” or “eroding the moral fabric” of Ugandan youth. She proposed stricter vetting of lyrics before songs are cleared for radio and TV airplay.
Lil Pazo has consistently dismissed these moves as an attack on artistic creativity and the livelihoods of “hustlers.” His primary arguments include:
He argues that “Enkudi” and other “veiled” lyrics are part of local slang and are not inherently obscene unless the listener chooses to interpret them that way.
He points out that the government should focus on helping artists earn from their craft rather than stifling the very hits that allow them to survive.
He has often questioned why international songs with similar or more explicit themes are played freely while local artists are targeted.
Despite the Minister’s strong stance, the “ban” has faced significant hurdles:
Rather than slowing down, Lil Pazo capitalized on the controversy. In 2025, he released a live remix of “Enkudi” and continued to perform at major events, including the HiPipo Music Awards, where the song was celebrated despite the regulatory scrutiny.
The standoff remains a “cold war” of sorts—while the Minister continues to push for legislative changes to the Stage Plays and Public Entertainments Act, Lil Pazo and other “Luga-flow” artists continue to release music that pushes the boundaries of traditional decorum.
