Comedians Sammie and Shawa have faced backlash on social media following their recent mimicry of popular musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine.
The duo performed a skit at the weekly Comedy Store show, inspired by events in Bulindo, Wakiso District, earlier this week. During a scuffle between police and National Unity Platform leaders and supporters, Bobi Wine was allegedly injured by a teargas canister.
While Sammie and Shawa have gained attention for their mimicry skits of both President Museveni and Bobi Wine, their latest performance received mixed reactions. Many social media users found it insensitive to mock Bobi Wine, who is currently recovering from injuries sustained in the scuffle.
However, the comedians remain unapologetic, insisting that their skit was purely for comedic purposes and not intended to hurt Bobi Wine.
“We are going to keep acting comedy because what we did was purely comedy. We are not the first people to do such a thing. Trevor Noah from South Africa has done it with Donald Trump, and that’s where we got the idea,” said Shawa, who plays the role of Bobi Wine.
He acknowledged that the timing of their skit may have contributed to the negative reception. “Maybe it was bad timing, given Bobi Wine’s current situation. That’s what made our fans angry, but I believe true comedy lovers will understand our intentions. I will continue acting like Bobi Wine for those who enjoy it, and there’s nothing we can do for those who don’t.”
Sammie, who portrays President Museveni, echoed similar sentiments. “Every person works within their field. When a politician speaks, it’s political; when a doctor speaks, it’s medical. As comedians, when we speak, it’s meant to be funny,” he explained.
He added, “We ask Ugandans to understand that this is comedy, not reality. We can make fun of reality because that’s our job.”
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