Senator Orwoba criticises MCSK’s Ezekiel Mutua over Embarambamba ban
UDA nominated senator Gloria Orwoba has launched a scathing attack on the Chief Executive Officer of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), Ezekiel Mutua, for his handling of the controversy surrounding gospel singer Chris Embarambamba.
Embarambamba has recently come under fire for his latest music video, ‘Niko Uchi’, which has sparked debate and drawn criticism from various quarters, including the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) and the public.
On Thursday, February 29, Mutua hinted at the possibility of delisting Embarambamba from the MCSK directory, effectively cutting him off from royalties typically entitled to musicians.
“Embarambamba and Getumbe obnoxious content will be deleted from social media. MCSK has also initiated the process of deregistering the two from the Society. If the resolution by a recent special AGM is upheld, the two will not be members of MCSK and will not earn any royalties for FIVE years. Repeat offence will earn them a life ban! We must get rid of this madness and restore sanity. Thank you KFCB, for acting,” Mutua wrote on the X platform.
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In response to Mutua’s actions, Senator Orwoba accused him of stifling creativity in the country and suggested a lack of effective management in the music industry.
She expressed her intention to engage with President William Ruto to address these issues and advocate for reform within the industry.
“Ezekiel Mutua and many other self-proclaimed custodians of morality are hindering progress in this industry! I intend to speak directly with the president to put an end to this era of backwardness and incompetence among those who have no understanding of the creative arts! We reject you!” she exclaimed.
Orwoba emphasised the need for fresh leadership in the music industry to elevate it to the standards seen in countries like Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana.
She criticised Mutua’s approach, questioning his ability to comprehend the complexity and symbolism present in Embarambamba’s work.
Meanwhile, Embarambamba himself defended his music, suggesting that it has been misunderstood by many.
“Some people think that the gospel songs Embarambamba sings are inappropriate behavior, but you must understand the truth. The problem lies in the understanding of the song because people judge from the beginning,” explained the singer.