The recent clashes between gangs affiliated with Ugandan musicians Pallaso real names Pius Mayanja and Alien Skin real names Patrick Mulwana , have raised concerns about the escalating violence in the country’s music industry.
This new trend has proved disturbing calling for a proactive approach and illuminated effort in addresing these looming organised crime to prevent further bloodshed and maintain a peaceful creative atmosphere.
The rivalry between Pallaso and Alien Skin’s gangs has been simmering for months, with both sides engaging in a series of heated exchanges on social media and in public.
The tension finally boiled over into physical violence, resulting in injuries and property damage.
Gang violence poses a significant risk to fans, bystanders, and the general public.
Alien Skin’s gang forcefully invaded Buganda Kingdom’s end-of-year fete and beat revelers who heckled their principals as he performed.
Several revelers were left nursing swollen faces and many lost their items such as mobile phones and wallets to Alien Skin’s gang.
The ongoing violence tarnishes the image of Uganda’s music scene, deterring potential investors and tourists.
Speaking to Nexus Media , Sheilah Ndyanabangi , a counsellor in Bukoto revealed that exposure to gang violence has a corrosive influence on impressionable young minds.
“I can assure you that the gang violence can appear to be cool to the youths . Do not be surprised when these gangs are not dismantled, and more gangs come up,” she said.
“I remember when we were growing up and we heard about the gangs among the US musicians. To us it appeared cool yet some lost their lives,“ Ndyanabangi said.
According to Ndyanabangi, minds especially Ugandan youths who look up to Ugandans should not be exposed to such gang behavior.
In addition to gangs influencing young minds , memes like , president of the street, ambassador of the ghetto, inspiration of the youth,chief commander,ATM machine, sir Pallaso have been circulating on social media platforms , all in praise of Pallaso for disciplining Alien Skin.
Tentatively, in order to prevent further violence and maintain peace in the music industry,the authorities must take a firm stance against gang violence, arresting and prosecuting those involved.
According to Alex Mukasa , a resident of Makindye, Pallaso and Alien Skin’s gangs should be dismantled, and their members encouraged to pursue peaceful and constructive activities rather than engaging in such behaviour.
Music industry stakeholders, including artists, promoters, and venue owners, should come together to promote a culture of peace and respect.
On Wednesday, January 1, 2025 ,Alien Skin and his gang raided the ‘Mpele’ music concert in Buloba and forcefully removed musician Pallaso from the stage while he was performing,
In retaliation, Alien Skin punched Pallaso as he left the venue prompting his group to attack several revelers who took the advantage of stealing mobile phones, and wallets.
A few days later, Pallaso and his gang on Thursday raided the home of the Alien Skin gang in Makindye and destroyed property.
Alien Skin survived by hiding on top of the building while many of his group members reportedly hid in the ceiling.
The fighting between Pallaso and Alien Skin’s gangs is a stark reminder that gang violence has no place in Uganda’s music scene. Immediate action is required to dismantle these gangs, promote a culture of peace, and maintain a safe and creative environment for all stakeholders.
