Eddy Kenzo Threatens Street Protests Over Delayed Uganda Copyright Bill

Ugandan musician Eddy Kenzo, whose real name is Edrisah Musuuza, has opened up about his concerns over the resistance some Ugandan Members of Parliament (MPs) are showing towards amending the country's proposed copyright law.

In an interview, Kenzo pointed out that although many legislators recognize the importance of the law for artists, some are allegedly being influenced by "mafias" powerful figures who benefit from the current disorganization in Uganda’s music industry.

Kenzo, who has been a vocal advocate for protecting the rights of creatives, suggests that these so-called mafias have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, where artists’ intellectual property is not adequately protected. According to him, these forces are working behind the scenes to prevent the law from being passed because it would threaten their control over the industry.

"Some MPs understand the significance of the law, but there are others who have been compromised," Kenzo stated. "These 'mafias' benefit from the chaos, and that's why they are fighting against the bill."

The proposed copyright law aims to safeguard the intellectual property of musicians and other creatives in Uganda, ensuring they are compensated fairly for their work. Kenzo stressed that this is not a political issue, as some critics have suggested. He dismissed claims that the movement is politically motivated, clarifying that it is, in fact, about the survival and rights of artists.

"When we speak out about the copyright bill, some people start to say that we’re aligning with the opposition. But that’s not the case at all," Kenzo said. "This is about our rights. As artists, we create music, but it currently holds no real value. We’re simply asking for what’s rightfully ours."

Kenzo also warned that if the issue is not addressed, artists may be left with no choice but to take to the streets in peaceful protests. He emphasized that the struggle for a fair copyright system isn’t just for musicians, but for the entire creative community.

"If the Speaker and the MPs don’t recognize the urgency of this matter, we may be forced to take action. We will gather on Tuesday and march to Parliament to demand the bill’s passage. We can’t sit back while people continue to suffer," Kenzo said, urging both artists and the general public to stand in solidarity for the cause.

The proposed amendment has garnered support from many in Uganda’s creative industry, but with resistance still lingering in Parliament, it remains to be seen whether the law will be enacted anytime soon.