Cartels seek to oust Mutua, MCSK Chairman claims amid suspension allegations

MCSK CEO Ezekiel Mutua addressing the press in Nakuru on May 18,2022.[Kipsang Joseph,Standard]

The battle for the soul of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) continues to simmer, with Chairman Muli affirming that the Board is fully behind Mutua.

In a move to counter the recently circulated notice on the suspension of its CEO, Ezekiel Mutua, Board Chair Lazarus Muli described the attempt as one led by people with ill motives.

"It is pure propaganda by cartels in the industry who are unhappy with the great work Mutua is doing for MCSK and the music industry in general. In the meantime, our members and stakeholders can rest assured that Dr. Mutua is in charge, and the MCSK leadership is fully behind him," he stated.

Recently, a notice of suspension for CEO Ezekiel Mutua was widely circulated. The group behind his suspension claimed legitimacy, citing a court ruling that purportedly allowed the newly elected board to assume office.

However, Muli has strongly refuted these claims, stating they are insidious propaganda being peddled on social media.

"Bringing change to an industry that has for far too long been held hostage by cartels at the expense of the artists is bound to attract enemies, but we are fully behind the CEO and his team at MCSK as they transform the industry," he posted.

Muli further stated that appropriate action is being taken against the authors of the malicious documents to ensure they face the law for defamation and spreading falsehoods.

The group, led by Pamela Muyeku Binale, cited orders from Hon. Justice Chigiti (S.C.), issued on 16th August 2024, and a ruling on 20th November 2024, which allegedly allowed the newly elected Board of Directors of MCSK to assume office.

"Please note that the said orders were vacated by the same judge on 20th November 2024, as the court lacked jurisdiction to issue them initially. This decision followed the application dated 20th August 2024 by the Honourable Attorney General (Business Registration Service). As of 21st November 2024, the Board of Directors of MCSK has been duly sworn in and has formally taken office. Documentation confirming this process is enclosed herewith for your reference," stated Pamela.

The Board further stated that Mutua had yet to respond to their earlier requests to show cause why disciplinary action should not be taken against him.