Ugandan dancehall artist Latinum, whose real name is Tonny Mbangira, has publicly accused media personality and event organizer Douglas Lwanga of failing to pay musicians for their performances.
The allegations center around Lwanga’s popular Purple Party tours, an annual event known for celebrating African music and arts, which has been running for over a decade.
Latinum claims that during the Purple Party tours, he performed at multiple venues across the country, including Entebbe, Jinja, and Fort Portal, without receiving any payment.
According to the artist, Lwanga promised exposure and airplay on his media platforms in lieu of financial compensation. Latinum, who is currently facing financial difficulties, expressed disappointment that these promises have not been fulfilled, especially at a time when he needs support the most.
These accusations are not new, as similar claims have been made against Lwanga in the past. For instance, artist manager and singer Full Figure previously alleged that Lwanga has a history of not paying musicians for their performances at Purple Party events, often offering airtime on his shows instead, which is sometimes not delivered.
"I don't know if I will ever work with Douglas Lwanga again because for all the concerts you saw me in, he never paid me. There were some where I headlined, and to be honest, I didn't get anything from them, and that's why I am where I am," Latinum said.