Mikie Wine faces backlash for featuring juvenile in suggestive music video

The decision to feature Pretty Nicole, a 16-year-old, as a vixen in a raunchy video shoot, has sparked criticism on social media, with citizens accusing the singer of exploiting the minor for publicity.

Singer Michael Mukwaya, popularly known as Mikie Wine, has stirred public outrage after featuring juvenile Pretty Nicole in his latest music video, Kankutekemu, which was released earlier this week.

The move has sparked criticism on social media, with citizens accusing the singer of exploiting the minor for publicity.

Pretty Nicole, real name Emmanuella Musimenta, who has recently been in the spotlight due to legal issues, appears as a video vixen in the clip a role many feel is inappropriate given her age and circumstances.

Nicole was recently embroiled in a public scandal after Hajjat Kulthum Gumisiriza accused her of defaming her husband, leading to police involvement.

The backlash against Mikie Wine, the younger brother of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, began almost immediately after the video teaser was posted online.

Social media commenters condemned the move, with some describing it as “cheap publicity” and an affront to the values that Bobi Wine represents.

"When you examine the content restrictions absent in our domestic laws, then you compare them to international laws, you will see that using a child in anything that exposes the minor to harmful content is prohibited," said Isaac Odong, a concerned social media user.

The criticism highlights concerns about Mikie Wine’s judgment, especially given his family’s public image.

Amid the controversy, lawyer Hassan Male Mabirizi defended the singer, arguing that Ugandan law allows individuals aged 16 and above to engage in employment. Mabirizi suggested that Nicole’s role in the video was legally permissible.

"I disagree that Mikie Wine’s video sexualizes Pretty Nicole. It’s drama and is allowed under Article 34(5) of the Constitution," Mabirizi said.

He cited key provisions under Articles 32, 33, 34, and 35 of the Ugandan Constitution, which outline protections and rights for women, children, persons with disabilities, and minority groups.

Article 34 provides children with rights to parental care, basic education, and protection from exploitation.

It prohibits child labor, setting the age threshold for children at under 16 years. This article also emphasizes special protections for orphans and vulnerable children to safeguard their welfare and development.

Persons with disabilities are protected under Article 35, which mandates the state to respect their human dignity and implement measures to help them reach their full potential.

Mikie Wine has yet to respond to the criticisms.

As debate continues, this incident has raised questions about the portrayal of minors in the entertainment industry, with calls for stronger regulations to prevent potential exploitation.