By Rahim Abdul
Concerns over the recent Blank Media Levy royalty distribution continue to grow after a planned meeting between concerned stakeholders and the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) failed to take place on Wednesday.
The stakeholders, including Kelvin Sulugwe, Kelvin Ngumuya and other rights holders, had gone to COSOMA offices accompanied by their lawyers and members of the media to seek clarification over the royalty distribution process.
According to the stakeholders, the meeting did not proceed because COSOMA Chief Executive Officer was reportedly unavailable.
They said the latest development marks the second time the meeting has been postponed, raising further concerns among artists and other rights holders.
The stakeholders said they wanted answers on several issues surrounding the Blank Media Levy distribution, including transparency in the allocation of royalties.
They also questioned the integrity of the data used to calculate payments and the accuracy of ownership records for beneficiaries.
Another concern raised relates to the newly introduced administration fee, which they say requires further explanation from COSOMA.
Following the failed meeting, the stakeholders’ legal representatives have written to COSOMA seeking an explanation for the postponement and requesting a clear way forward.
They said they expect the copyright body to engage them promptly to address the concerns and restore confidence in the royalty distribution process.
The stakeholders maintained that artists and rights holders deserve a transparent and accountable system for managing and distributing royalties.
They further said open dialogue with COSOMA is essential to resolving the outstanding issues.
The group expressed hope that the matter will be resolved quickly through constructive engagement.
COSOMA is yet to publicly respond to the stakeholders’ latest concerns regarding the postponed meeting.The Blank Media Levy distribution has recently attracted public attention with several artists and rights holders calling for greater transparency and accountability in the management of royalties.
