Ugandan musician Moses Ssali aka Bebe Cool has been spotted moving around with a Uganda Peoples Defence soldier as his bodyguard.
Bebe Cool’s recent public appearance at Sheraton Hotel during the New Year fête under the heavy protection of mean-looking guards commanded by a UPDF soldier left several revelers with mixed reactions.
While having a security detail is understandable, given the artist’s high profile, the use of an armed guard raises questions about the potential risks to his public image.
Our entertainment writer, who was in attendance, overheard various revelers questioning why musician Bebe Cool would move with a military bodyguard, a move that they believe can only serve to scare his audience.
“That soldier who guards Bebe will definitely ruin his fan base. I realized it on New Year’s Eve while at the Sheraton hotel when he came to perform amidst tight security. People were intimidated seeing a Ugandan musician being heavily guarded by a mean-looking soldier,” one boda-boda rider said.
Paul Ssemwanga, a lawyer in Kampala City, the use of a military bodyguard is perceived as an excessive display of power, potentially damaging Bebe Cool’s reputation and public image.
“In the first place, why would a musician move with a soldier as his bodyguard? He just wants to show power because I see him on social media saying that he talks to the president of this country. Let him be humble like other musicians,” Ssemwanga said.
Ben Okech, a resident of Kiwatule, Bebe Cool’s association with the soldier will automatically harm his fan base and reputation.
“How does a musician go to a bar with a soldier? This soldier does not let you even say hello to Bebe Cool. He is mean-looking. Recently, along the road, this soldier pointed a gun at a boda-boda rider because he was riding next to their car, Okech said.
While Bebe Cool’s safety is paramount, his choice of security detail will have unintended consequences for his public image. By exploring alternative security options, Bebe Cool can ensure his safety while maintaining a positive relationship with his fans.
