The music industry in Kenya is in shock after conflicting reports about the fate of Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua flooded the public.
A controversial newspaper notice declared Mutua had been fired and warned people against doing business with him.
But hours later, another statement strongly defended Mutua, calling the firing fake and illegal. This messy public drama has left artists, stakeholders, and the public wondering who is really in charge of MCSK.
Power Struggle at MCSK Explodes Into Public View
It all started when a public notice appeared in the Daily Nation. Signed by individuals claiming to be the MCSK “Board of Directors,” the notice declared that Ezekiel Mutua was no longer the CEO. It claimed Mutua had stopped being an employee on May 3, 2025 and went as far as warning the public to stop engaging with him.
The notice accused Mutua of holding onto company property. It listed a black Toyota Prado TX, registration KDK 158X, and control of MCSK’s official social media accounts as items Mutua had allegedly refused to surrender.
“You are therefore cautioned that the said Ezekiel Mutua DOES NOT have any authority to transact any business for and on behalf of MCSK,” the notice read. “Be VIGILANT and CAREFUL when dealing with him.”
It ended with a harsh disclaimer: “MCSK shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, or injury incurred for transacting with Ezekiel Mutua.”
The claims shocked many. But the confusion deepened when a second notice appeared. This new statement, signed by Ephantus Wahome Kamau, strongly defended Mutua and slammed the earlier notice as false and malicious.
“We wish to clarify unequivocally that these allegations are entirely baseless. Dr. Ezekiel Mutua remains the legitimate CEO of MCSK,” it said.
According to this rebuttal, the people behind the first notice were former directors whose term had ended on February 16, 2025. The statement accused them of having no authority to act for MCSK.
Ezekiel Mutua’s Refusal to Approve Millions Sparks Fallout
The second notice revealed what it claimed was the real reason behind the attack on Ezekiel Mutua. It accused the former directors of plotting to remove Mutua because he had blocked a massive payout.
“Their grievances stem from Dr. Mutua’s refusal to approve over KSh200 million in alleged arrears that the former directors wanted to be paid as they exited office in February,” it stated.
This accusation paints the picture of a bitter financial dispute turned into a power struggle. By refusing to sign off on the payments, Mutua may have stood in the way of payouts the former directors believed they deserved. Now, it appears they are fighting back publicly.
The new statement urged stakeholders and the public to ignore the earlier notice. “We urge the public and stakeholders to disregard misinformation spread by these former officials,” it added.
Artists and Stakeholders Demand Clarity
The back-and-forth between the rival notices has left MCSK members and Kenyan artists confused. Many have taken to social media demanding clarity over who is legally in charge of the organization.
“Is Ezekiel Mutua the CEO or not? We need answers,” one popular artist posted on X.
Others questioned the timing and motives of the directors who claimed Mutua’s dismissal. Some saw it as an attempt to derail reforms Mutua had introduced since taking office.
Mutua, known for his strict leadership and outspoken personality, has not yet issued a personal statement addressing the chaos. His supporters argue that he has fought to clean up MCSK and ensure musicians get better royalties. His critics accuse him of arrogance and controlling leadership.
The unfolding drama comes at a time when artists are already struggling with low payouts and piracy. The uncertainty over leadership only worsens the challenges facing Kenya’s music industry.
For now, both notices stand in stark opposition, each claiming legitimacy. It remains unclear which side will prevail or if the matter will head to court. What is certain is that this public fight has exposed deep divisions within MCSK’s leadership.
As the confusion continues, all eyes remain on Ezekiel Mutua and the next move from both camps. Will he survive this attempted ouster, or is this the beginning of the end for his controversial reign at MCSK?
One thing is clear—Kenya’s music watchdog is in turmoil, and it is the artists who will suffer the most if this leadership crisis drags on.
