Among many things the talented singer accuses BOMU of in a letter addressed to the BOMU president, Phemelo ‘Fresh Les’ Lesokwane this week, is the organisation’s consistent misleading of the government that the creative environment is thriving when in reality, many artists live in abject poverty. Garogwe says this is a reality that can no longer be ignored. “Despite our collective aspirations for growth and innovation, we continue to face profound challenges with little progress to show. As both a president and a fellow musician, I expected that you would lead with an unwavering commitment to enhancing our sector. Instead, your focus seems limited to hosting awards, overlooking the pressing issues artists endure daily. The plight of our community is not merely a secret; it is a burden we carry together,” Garogwe said in the letter.
Garogwe said BOMU has for the past five years adopted a passive approach, merely awaiting government funding to host awards instead of fulfilling its foundational purpose of advocating for artists and fostering an environment conducive to creative excellence. He said the BOMU leadership has allowed themselves to be co-opted, presenting a façade of support for creatives while failing to address the systemic issues plaguing the industry. He indicated that their inaction exemplifies a dismal failure in leadership and responsibility.
