The widespread piracy of creative works, particularly Ghanaian films, by local television stations has provoked strong condemnation from George Bosompem, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the Ghana Academy for Film and Television Arts (GAFTA).
Describing the situation as a significant menace to the survival and expansion of Ghana’s film industry, Mr Bosompem advised filmmakers to pursue legal action against any television channel that broadcasts their movies without the necessary authorisation.
“It cripples our industry, and it is outright theft, and we must treat it as such,” he asserted on Onua FM Showbiz on Saturday, 26th April, adding emphatically, “Sue them; if you have to sue them to bankrupt a TV station, then do it.”
He expressed the firm belief that it is high time stringent measures were enforced against any broadcaster that disregards copyright laws within the country.
The GAFTA PRO also reiterated how overlooking this issue for an extended period has stifled the progress of the movie industry in Ghana.
He emphasised the urgent need for filmmakers to assert their rights and for the legal system to uphold copyright protections to safeguard the future of Ghanaian cinema.
By: King Kwaku Mensa
