Bebe Demands UGX 1 Billion Compensation for Himself and Chameleone, Cites Decades of Sacrifice

By Posha Aloyo

Bebe Cool has publicly declared that he and fellow music legend Jose Chameleone each deserve a payout of UGX 1 billion from Gen. Salim Saleh in recognition of their contributions to Uganda’s music industry.

Speaking during a media interview, Bebe Cool stated that he and Chameleone have played a key role in shaping Uganda’s music landscape, paving the way for younger artistes.

He added that they represented the country on both regional and international stages long before the industry gained mainstream structure and support.

“We carried the weight of an entire industry on our backs when no one else would,” Bebe Cool claimed, pointing out that their sacrifices helped build the foundation on which today’s booming entertainment scene stands.

He noted that over the years, they have not only endured personal and financial struggles but have also helped establish music as a viable economic sector in Uganda.

“We gave our lives, faced bans, arrests, bullets, and still stood tall to put Ugandan music on the map,” he said.

The statement has sparked widespread debate within the music and entertainment industry. Some artistes and fans agree that the veterans deserve compensation for their decades of impact.

Others argue that any rewards should come through private success and public appreciation rather than state-funded handouts.

Gen. Salim Saleh, who has played an active role in supporting the arts through various government-backed creative industry initiatives, has yet to respond to Bebe Cool’s remarks.

In previous years, Gen. Saleh has worked with musicians under the Operation Wealth Creation framework, offering support in the form of training, financing, and infrastructure development.

Jose Chameleone has also not yet confirmed whether he shares Bebe Cool’s sentiments.