French-based Canal+ International accuses Impression Media of violating its rights, alerts MACRA
Renowned French Technological Company, Canal+ International, has written Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), complaining that Impression Media IPTV Limited is violating its rights by broadcasting without permission its ROK channel.
Impression Media IPTV Limited, whose Managing Director is Malawian businessman Patridge Nthakomwa, is based in the Capital, Lilongwe.
In a letter addressed to M
ACRA, dated 11th August, 2023, Canal+ International Director of Antipiracy, Simon Minkowski, says their ROK Channel has never at any point entered into a memorandum of understanding with Impression Media.
“We, Canal+ International, a media company based in France, 50 rue Camille Desmoulins 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux, wish to confirm to you that our channel “ROK” is not licensed to the company “Impression TV” based in Area 9 Office, Plot Number LL9/448/5B, Private Bag 360, Lilongwe 3, Malawi. (https://impressionapp.net/),” the letter reads in part.
Canal+ International has since asked MACRA to stop Impression Media from using their channel.
“Thus, any promotion and/or broadcasting of ROK channel by Impression TV by any means and in any territories, notably in Malawi, is unauthorized by our company and causes us irreparable damages.
“Unfortunately, we must inform you that Impression TV is currently promoting and/or broadcasting our ROK channel (see evidence attached).
“We respectfully solicit your assistance to cease this violation of our rights,” the letter further reads.
The letter is also copied to the Executive Director of Copyright Society of Malawi (Cosoma), Dora Makwinja.
Following the closure of DStv services in Malawi, Impression Media IPTV Limited immediately came into the limelight and started advertising its services on social media platforms, saying it offers content services.
Then, police on 14th August arrested Nthakomwa for illegal broadcasting, following an application by Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) at the Magistrate Court in Lilongwe.
Nthakomwa is charged with illegal broadcasting, contrary to section 187 of the Communications Act Cap 68:01 of the Laws of Malawi. He is on police bail, awaiting court proceedings.
According to the adverts by Impression Media, customers can, among other things, buy a smart box, pay a subscription fee to Impression Media and then buy an internet bundle, which allows them to access over 1000 local and international television channels.
MACRA, in its application for a warrant of arrest for Nthakomwa, argues that Impression Media has been operating illegally since it does not have a license issued by the regulator under the Communications Act.
According to MACRA, this crime attracts imprisonment for five years.
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