MCSK opposes collection of music royalties through eCitizen

Musicians and singers hailing from various counties across Kenya have strongly opposed the government's move to collect their royalties through eCitizen.

This comes after Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria last week suggested that the government aims to amend the Copyright Act to establish a Collective Management Organisation (CMO) under governmental control, tasked with collecting artists' royalties.

The Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua, addressing the press after the AGM in Maanzoni, Machakos County on Friday, stated that the move would prove ineffective, further pointing out the government's lack of involvement in music production and reinforcing the notion that copyright is private property.

Mutua further urged the government to refrain from enacting the move which he says could lead to legal battles.

He similarly warned that the move could tarnish President William Ruto's reputation since private rights cannot be regulated.

The MCSK CEO further called out musicians he says have been misleading Cabinet Secretaries by encouraging the government to collect copyright and royalty fees for them via eCitizen.

His sentiments were echoed by MCSK Chairman Lazarus Muli who emphasised the sanctity of private rights and the personal nature of music, which warrants protection.

Muli urged the government to play a role in enforcing laws to safeguard music and ensure proper compensation for its creators.

He further emphasised that with effective enforcement, Kenyan musicians could become among the wealthiest in the continent, even as he lamented about some musicians reportedly opposing their efforts.

Musician 'Man Ingwe' on his part underscored that music represents artists' intellectual property and should not be forcibly taken away from them.

He likewise called upon the government to intervene and not enforce the mooted collection process.

Other musicians present during the presser included; Esther Wahome, Zipporah Eric, Solomon Mkubwa, Victor Mbuviamong others.

CS Kuria’s remarks on collection of all music copyrights and royalties through the eCitizen platform seemingly rubbed the wrong way his Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage counterpart Aisha Jumwa who insisted that the matter falls under her docket.

While appreciating Kuria's enthusiasm in making his opinion, Jumwa said that there are still ongoing talks "on streamlining the industry" and an official announcement will be made at the opportune time.

"I like the zeal of my colleague and friend Moses Kuria and in the spirit of one gov't approach, this opinion is valid. However, my ministry through the state department of Culture, Arts & Heritage is in charge and is working," Jumwa wrote.

"Once discussions are concluded, the ministry will pronounce itself on the next course of action. Asante."