“Failed Musicians Have Turned to Begging” — Priest Blasts Artists at Museveni Rally

Father Deogratius Kiibi Kateregga of St. Joseph’s Parish in Mpigi has set off a storm of public debate after delivering a sharp and uncompromising critique of musicians who recently performed at a campaign rally for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Known for his outspoken and often controversial commentary on social and political issues, the Catholic priest did not mince his words as he questioned the motives behind the musicians’ presence at the event. Speaking candidly, Father Kateregga accused several of the artists of abandoning their craft and drawing closer to the President not out of patriotism or political conviction, but out of desperation and a struggle for relevance.

“Failed musicians have also gone to President Museveni’s campaign rally, positioning themselves close to him so they can be seen,” Father Kateregga said.
“There are established artists that we knew, but now they have ditched music and turned to begging.”

According to the priest, the decision by some entertainers to openly align themselves with political power has diminished their status in society, reducing them from once-respected performers to individuals he described as opportunists seeking survival rather than success through talent. He questioned the sustainability of such a path and expressed doubt about what the future holds for those who have traded artistry for political visibility.

“When you look at their future, you wonder. They need to enroll in a beggars’ course to improve their begging skills,” he added.

The remarks have since sparked widespread reaction across social media platforms and public forums. While some members of the public have praised Father Kateregga for what they view as fearless honesty and moral clarity, others have accused him of being insensitive and disrespectful toward musicians who choose to engage in politics as a means of earning a living.

Critics argue that in a challenging economic environment, artists—like many other professionals—are entitled to explore political engagements and endorsements.

As of the time of publication, none of the musicians referenced in Father Kateregga’s comments have issued an official response, leaving the debate to rage on among fans, commentators, and cultural observers.

WHO IS FATHER KATEREGGA?

Father Deogratius Kiibi Kateregga was born on July 8, 1986, into a large family of nine children—three girls and six boys—in what is now Kyotera District.

He is the son of Dr. Augustine Kateregga, a medical doctor currently serving at Kaliisizo Hospital. Dr. Kateregga previously worked for two decades as the head of Kabuwoko Health Centre IV, earning recognition for his long service in public health. His mother, Teddy Nabayunga, is a trained nurse who runs a home clinic, further grounding the family in a tradition of service to the community.

Raised in a deeply Catholic household, Father Kateregga says his decision to join the priesthood came naturally. His family has strong religious roots, with two of his sisters serving as Catholic nuns. His younger brother, Bonny Rogers Muteekanga, is currently a seminarian at Kinyamasika Seminary, training to become a priest.

With his bold statements and growing public profile, Father Kateregga continues to attract attention—both admiration and criticism—as a religious leader unafraid to weigh in on the intersection of faith, culture, and politics in contemporary Uganda.