President Museveni on Saturday surprised guests at the launch of the Yoweri Music Album in Munyonyo when he publicly revealed that singer Edrisa Musuza, better known as Eddy Kenzo, is the son of the late Chefe Ali, one of the National Resistance Army (NRA) commanders during the 1981–86 guerrilla war.
Museveni, who graced the event alongside First Lady Janet Museveni, praised Kenzo for his honesty and for prudently using government support extended to the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF).
“I’m very happy with the honesty of Kenzo, because the money we gave him, he used it. Kenzo is the son of a soldier. He’s the son of Chefe Ali,” Museveni said, turning to the singer.
“Did you tell them your father or you’re hiding it?” Museveni asked Kenzo.
“He told me he’s the son of Chefe Ali. And you can see they even resemble each other. Don’t you see? They even look a bit alike.”
Chefe Ali, whose full name was Enock Mwine, was among the bush war commanders who fought alongside Museveni in Luweero.
He is remembered for his daring operations and loyalty to the rebel cause, although his role has remained less prominent in public discourse compared to figures such as Gen. Salim Saleh and Gen. Elly Tumwine.
Chefe Ali’s contributions to the NRA’s victory, particularly in mobilizing fighters and securing supply routes, are quietly acknowledged within historical circles.
Until Museveni’s revelation, Kenzo’s family link to Chefe Ali had not been widely known.
Eddy Kenzo has always claimed that he is a product of the ghetto, and he has lived most of his life on the streets.
The internet has since reacted to President Museveni’s comments differently. Below are some of the reactions.
