Kazadi Films, the production company behind the Icon Zambia singing competition, has taken legal action against socialite Kidist Kifle, wife of renowned Zambian artist Yo Maps, for alleged breach of contract. According to court documents filed in the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court, Kazadi Films is demanding compensation from Kifle for missed production costs after she allegedly failed to fulfill her duties as a judge on the show.
The disagreement, which had initially played out on social media and the Icon Zambia stage, has now escalated to a legal battle. The production company is suing Kifle for the costs incurred due to her absence from several episodes, as well as seeking a refund of advanced payments made for those missed recordings.
The contract between Kifle and Kazadi Films stipulated that she would participate in all pre-production, production, and promotional activities related to the show. For her services, she was to receive a total compensation of $3,000, with half of the amount paid as a deposit upon signing the agreement, and the remaining balance to be paid upon completion of the production. The contract also covered wardrobe expenses and provided makeup services for Kifle.
The contract further detailed that Kifle was expected to adhere strictly to the production schedule, attend all pre-production meetings, rehearsals, and tapings, and promptly inform the production company of any delays or conflicts. Failure to meet these obligations would result in her being liable for the production costs of the missed days.
Kazadi Films claims that Kifle breached several terms of the contract, including her refusal to participate in interviews and promotional activities, as well as missing scheduled shooting days, leading to significant production delays and costs. Despite these breaches, Kifle has reportedly refused to return the money paid for the missed episodes, prompting Kazadi Films to seek redress through the court.