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The popular Romanian band Akcent has issued a public warning to sponsors and fans about a fraudulent event scheduled for January 30 in Pakistan, which misused their name and image to attract major sponsorships from KFC and Pepsi Pakistan.
In an official statement addressed to “respected sponsors and fans,” Akcent clarified that the event is entirely fake and unauthorized. The band’s name and likeness were exploited without permission to secure partnerships, prompting the group to urge brands to verify artist contracts before associating with organizers.
“We strongly caution all sponsors and brands to verify artist authorizations and contracts before associating with such unprofessional and misleading event organizers,” the statement read. “Misrepresentation of artists not only damages trust but also exposes partners to serious reputational risk.”
The notice directly tagged KFC Pakistan and Pepsi Pakistan on social media, advising vigilance and due diligence in future collaborations. Neither brand has publicly responded as of late Wednesday, but the disclosure highlights growing concerns over fake promotions in Pakistan’s event industry, especially amid rising demand for international acts.
Akcent, led by founder Adrian Sînă and known internationally for hits like “That’s My Name”, “Stay With Me”, and “King of Disco”, is a Romanian dance-pop group with a global fanbase, including in Pakistan. The band has performed in the country several times in the past, and Pakistani audiences have often shown enthusiasm for its music.
This is not the first time issues of fraudulent events and concert scams have hit Pakistan’s entertainment scene. Social media has previously exposed fake shows and misleading promotions that left crowds disappointed and sponsors exposed, underscoring the need for robust checks in pre-event planning.
