Rich Bizzy calls for fair treatment of artists, rejects political discrimination

LUSAKA – Prominent Zambian Afrobeat and dancehall sensation Rich Chilufya, widely recognized by his stage moniker Rich Bizzy, has issued a compelling plea for fairness and tolerance within the nation's vibrant arts industry. The acclaimed musician has vociferously called for the equal treatment of all artists, irrespective of their political leanings or affiliations, highlighting a growing concern over partisan divides impacting creative expression and economic opportunities. Rich Bizzy's impassioned statement comes at a time when the Zambian entertainment landscape frequently grapples with the subtle, and sometimes overt, influence of political allegiances on artists' careers. Many performers have, over the years, found themselves either ostracized or favoured based on their perceived support for, or criticism of, the ruling party or opposition. This environment, Bizzy argues, stifles creativity, undermines artistic freedom, and ultimately harms the growth and professionalism of the entire sector. “Our art should transcend political boundaries,” Bizzy stated, emphasizing that music and other forms of artistic expression are universal languages meant to unite, not divide. “When we allow politics to dictate who gets airplay, who gets booked for national events, or who receives corporate sponsorships, we are not only doing a disservice to the artists but also to the Zambian people who deserve diverse and unhindered creative output.” He further stressed that artists, like any other citizens, have the right to their political opinions without fear of professional reprisal. The issue of political patronage and discrimination in the arts is not new to Zambia. Historically, successive governments have been accused of leveraging their influence to promote artists aligned with their agenda, while sidelining those perceived as critical or associated with rival political factions. This practice often leads to a chilling effect, where artists self-censor or avoid expressing