Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sarah Jane Lebrasse
Published on 2024-03-11 04:00:43
Gérard Louise, director of the Mauritius Society of Authors (MASA), who had been suspended from his position over 13 years ago, may eventually consider returning to the society in Beau-Bassin. Accused of piracy by Audrey Lamarque, who represented Sony Music at the time, Gérard Louise was acquitted by the Intermediate Court.
In his judgment in this 13-year-long case, Magistrate Nithiraj Bisnathsing concluded that “the Prosecution has failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt” against Gérard Louise, one of the three accused in this case. Audrey Lamarque had accused the society’s director of authorizing Blue Ray company to reproduce songs from the Sony Music label without the consent of Sony BMG Music Africa (Pty) Ltd, the copyright holder of these titles. However, Gérard Louise’s legal troubles are not over yet. He is facing a formal charge of “using office for gratification” under the Prevention of Corruption Act (POCA).
In this case, he is accused of favoritism in the recruitment of eight employees of MASA between 2005 and 2008, without following the tender procedures. The reinstatement of Gérard Louise at MASA will depend on a legal opinion. If the board of the society is not opposed to the return of the suspended director, the situation remains ambiguous. The society is relying on a legal opinion to find a clearer solution as soon as possible.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
