The Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) has come out to defend singer Serena Bata in a contract dispute with her former management of Abitex Promotions.
A few months back, Serena Bata and Abitex bitterly fell out with the latter accusing the former of performing at several shows without his knowledge which went against their contract.
In a turn of events, Abitex through his lawyers the Lukwago and Company Advocates slapped Serena Bata with a demand notice, asking for Ugx 350m before she continues performing the songs she recorded while still under her former management.
Abitex also demanded a refund of Ugx 100M Serena accrued during the performances she held without his knowledge and Ugx 300M in fees, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses related to her actual breach of the agreement and failure to perform her obligations.
Upon crossing paths with the dispute, UMA took interest in the matter and realised that it is the Rights and Interests of the artist that have been at threat.
While addressing the matter in a press release, the association pledged to partner with the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) and The Pan-African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF) to ensure that the rights and integrity of Serena Bata are upheld.
UMA further urged the parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue in an effort to resolve their indifference hustle free.
“Kampala, Uganda – May 2, 2023 -The Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) is announcing its support for renowned singer Serena Bata in the ongoing contractual dispute with events promoter and talents manager Abbey Musinguzi, known as Abitex Promoter.
UMA will be working in partnership with the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) and The Pan-African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF} to ensure that the rights and integrity of Serena Bata are upheld.”
UMA in collaboration with her partners has keenly studied the circumstances of the dispute between Abltex and Serena Bata, and we have established that it’s the Rights and Interests of the artist that have been and are at threat since the beginning of the said contract and the 350 million demand notice for fees for performances, losses, damages, and expenses related to the alleged breach.
UMA Secretary, Phina Mugerwa Masanyalaze, stated, “The Uganda Musicians Association Is dedicated to defending the rights and freedoms of our members. We will work tirelessly alongside our partners at FHRI through PANAF to seek a fair resolution in the best interest of Serena Bata and the wider artistic community.”
The parties are committed to ensuring that the rights and Interests of artists are protected while promoting artistic freedom and integrity, UMA encourages all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards an amicable solution.
While the association respects the importance of contracts and agreements, it also believes in the value of creative expression and the need for artists to have the freedom to showcase their talents.
