The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) has formally distanced itself from what it described as a “so-called caucus meeting” allegedly organised by a splinter group at the Zimbabwe College of Music on Monday.
The caucus meeting was called by axed Zimura board members Derreck Mpofu, Joseph Garakara and Gift Amuli.
The trio, according to Zimura, was dismissed for spreading false claims of forgery, corruption and procedural irregularities after opting not to attend the board elections.
In an official statement, Zimura said it had become aware of communications circulating under the banner of a group calling itself the “Zimura Renewal Team”, which was calling for an unauthorised meeting purportedly linked to the association.
“Zimura hereby disassociates itself completely from this faction and its activities,” the association said.
The collective management organisation stressed that the group does not represent Zimura, its legitimate board, or its management.
It further clarified that the meeting in question was not a Zimura event and that any messages or allegations being circulated by the group do not constitute official Zimura communication.
According to the statement, individuals involved in the alleged caucus are acting in their personal capacities, and the issues being raised form part of an internal administrative matter that is being handled through established governance channels.
Zimura urged its members, stakeholders, and the general public to disregard what it termed “confusing and unauthorised messages,” adding that the institution remains fully operational and stable.
Zimura encouraged anyone seeking clarification to contact its offices directly.
Meanwhile, a handful of artists turned up for the caucus meeting organised by the splinter group at the Zimbabwe College of Music.
However, the absence of top artistes was conspicuous, with some questioning the credibility and integrity of the meeting.
A source told Standard Style that most of the artistes who attended the caucus meeting are not prominent and reportedly do not generate significant royalties.
The source further claimed that some of the “old-school” musicians present have works that are past their prime and no longer enjoy regular airplay on national radio stations.