MCSK accuses Gov't of withholding Ksh.300M royalties for musicians

The Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) is now accusing the government of withholding over Ksh.300 million in royalties collected on behalf of Kenyan musicians.

Speaking during the burial of MCSK CEO Dr. Ezekiel Mutua’s father, the body’s Chairman Lazarus Mulli expressed concern over what he termed as troubling and intimidation of musicians by their regulator, the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO).

Muli alleged that KECOBO has channeled the royalties into a government controlled account instead of disbursing the funds to musicians.

He noted that the regulator insists on taking 30% of the proceeds, despite not being a Collective Management Organization (CMO) or representing any musicians.

"This is what has created tension and conflict. The money belongs to musicians and should be released to them in full," said Muli, further highlighting that the regulator's actions have unfairly targeted Dr. Mutua.

He called on President William Ruto to intervene, arguing that individuals within his government are behind the impasse.

The MCSK Chairman also urged those behind the alleged sabotage to cease making false accusations against musicians and to prioritize the release of the withheld funds. 

"The President’s intervention is critical to ensuring that musicians receive what is rightfully theirs," he emphasized.

During his Jamhuri Day address on Thursday, President Ruto addressed the exploitation of artists by regulatory bodies, slamming them for not giving musicians what they are rightfully owed.