This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
On August 28, Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai ordered the withdrawal of police from Music Copyright Society of Kenya operations, sparking a move to protect musicians from exploitation.
The decision comes as investigations into the society's work, which led to the payment of peanuts to artists, gain momentum. The society has been hiring police officers to offer security during their operations on matatus, cyber cafes, and other private entities to ensure compliance.
However, Mutyambai termed some of these operations as extortion and the use of police as a bait for more money. In a letter dated August 28, he directed that no police officers be authorized to accompany Music Copyright staff while performing their operations, stating that this malpractice has been tainting the image of the National Police Service.
President Uhuru Kenyatta had earlier ordered police to probe organizations that collect money on behalf of musicians to see if they are embezzling what they collect. The President noted that those who will be found to have embezzled musicians' money will have to return it.
As part of measures to protect musicians from exploitation, the President also encouraged Members of Parliament to push through an amendment to the copyright laws that is pending in parliament and which is aimed at protecting the interests of artistes.
Additionally, the President said the Government will move the Music Copyright Board from the Office of the Attorney General to the Ministry of ICT as part of measures to protect musicians from exploitation.
