Mmegi

BFA faces P2million lawsuit

House of football: The BFA is facing a P2million lawsuit over copyright issues. PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
House of football: The BFA is facing a P2million lawsuit over copyright issues. PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

The Botswana Football Association (BFA) faces a P2 million lawsuit from local football commentator and author, Molefhi Obenne, over the unauthorised use of a video clip.

Obenne's lawyers, Jere Attorneys, have served the association with a letter of demand after the BFA was accused of using the complainant's video clips without authority. "We are instructed that sometime in August 2023, he (Obenne) interviewed the late Molefi 'Sexton' Kowa and said the video was posted on the above-mentioned platform (The Foot Ball Experience). Our client has instructed us that on July 4, 2024, the Botswana Football Association hosted a memorial service at the National Stadium for the late Molefi Sexton Kowa, which he attended," the lawyers wrote to BFA. It is said during the service, a video clip, being a portion of the interview between Obenne and Kowa, was played. "The said video clip was firstly played for two to four minutes with sound and in full view of the attendees present for the service and members of the general public present at the National Stadium. As the service continued, the said video clip was replayed without sound on repeat. Further, little and or no credit was given to our client as the author and creator of the video clip played," the lawyers said.

The letter indicates that there was no formal communication made to Obenne for the acquisition and use of the video clip for the purposes of the memorial. It is said Obenne contacted the BFA CEO, Mfolo Mfolo, regarding the unauthorised use of the clip, and it is said that Mfolo was under the impression that authority had been sought. "Client advised that the truth of the matter is no consent whatsoever was sought from him prior to the publication of such clip in consideration that he holds exclusive rights to its distribution and use," the lawyers said.

Editor's Comment
Khama, gov't should cooperate

Firstly, the government must play its part in facilitating this transition. The role of Kgosi isn't merely ceremonial; it carries substantial responsibilities and influence within the community. Therefore, the government must ensure that all legal and procedural requirements are met to support Khama's return. This includes providing the necessary resources and administrative support to uphold the integrity of the Kgotla and its...

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