Madoi spent just over six weeks in detention without being convicted of any crime. Despite this, prison authorities insisted on cutting the dreadlocks he had been nurturing for nearly two decades. On Monday, Madoi was released on bail, set at one million Ugandan shillings.
Opposition-leaving fashion designer, Latif Madoi plans to regrow his 17-year-old dreadlocks after they were cut off during his detention. Madoi, known for creating clothes for celebrities such as the late South African reggae icon Lucky Dube and Jamaica's Busy Signal, vowed to regrow his locs for the rest of his life.
Madoi had his dreads shaved in prison
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Upon return to his home, Madoi shared his heartbreak over the loss of his cherished dreadlocks.
"I consider my dreadlocks as my crown," he said, lamenting that without them, he no longer felt distinctive. He recounted pleading with the prison officer in charge to let him keep his locs and shedding tears when they were finally cut. Despite this loss, Madoi emphasized that "it doesn't change the heart."
Madoi in court
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The 47-year-old designer is renowned for his "fashion concerts," where he would create 10 to 15 dresses within just two hours. However, the loss of his dreadlocks has left him feeling shy and hesitant about returning to the stage or visiting public places.
Madoi was arrested after police raided his fashion school, accusing him of possessing "uniforms declared to be for the exclusive use" of the military and police, which is illegal under Ugandan law. Madoi, his lawyer, and numerous supporters online believe his detention was politically motivated due to his affiliation with opposition leader Bobi Wine.
The relationship between Madoi and Bobi Wine began when Wine commissioned Madoi to create clothes for his concerts and music videos. Their professional connection continued into Wine's political career, with Madoi designing Wine's signature campaign outfit, bright red overalls.
Madoi admits to having military gear at the time of the raid on May 13, explaining that the uniform belonged to a friend serving in the US Army, for whom he was making alterations. He remains convinced that his arrest was due to his work for Bobi Wine.
"There's no other reason. Everyone who is affiliated with Bobi Wine will always be arrested," Madoi stated. He added that the current political climate has instilled fear among those close to Wine, making casual visits to Wine's home a risk for potential arrest.
