Ghana: MUSIGA slams formation of breakaway union

3 Jul 2023 - 13:32

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

The Musicians Union of Ghana’s (MUSIGA’s) leadership has criticised the decision of certain members to establish a new version of the organisation.

Acting MUSIGA president Bessa Simons.

The stance was made public in a statement published last week and signed by acting president Bessa Simons who stressed the importance of preserving the integrity and unity of the body.

SImons referred to Article 7.4.1 of MUSIGA’s constitution, which excludes members from affiliating with any competing musicians’ association.

“After the failure of their legal machinations and manoeuvring, this latest attempt to break the ranks of MUSIGA is unwarranted and must be condemned by all well-meaning musicians,” Simons said.

Simons also highlighted Article 7.7, which addresses conflicts of interest, saying that the defecting MUSIGA members undermine the legitimate interests of MUSIGA or its affiliates, and that joining the new union would result in the automatic cancellation of their MUSIGA membership.

Meanwhile, MUSIGA’s national executive council (NEC) has announced that the union’s elections will take place on 8 August, following a protracted period of court injunctions, postponements and internal disputes.

During an emergency meeting earlier this year, the NEC ratified an election as proposed by the election committee. Notable contenders in the upcoming polls include Bessa Simons, Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi and Deborah Freeman, who are competing for the position of MUSIGA president.

Originally scheduled for 2019, MUSIGA’s elections have faced delays due to legal challenges. However, a recent court ruling determined that the elections should proceed according to a decision by MUSIGA’s arbitration and disciplinary committee.

In a May interview with Graphic Showbiz, Simons clarified his role as acting MUSIGA president and stressed his intent to ensure the smooth running of the union during the transitional period. He said MUSIGA’s election committee, under the leadership of Peter Marfo, would run the elections independently and in strict adherence to the union’s constitution. He also emphasised the significance of securing adequate financial resources for the elections and maintaining a functional team.

MUSIGA