The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) is contemplating legal action against Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe due to the proliferation of inappropriate content across different media platforms.
Both artists are currently under scrutiny for their recent musical releases, which KFCB has prohibited, citing their unsuitability for public consumption, particularly by children.
The song “Niko Uchi” by Chris Embarambamba is at the center of controversy for allegedly incorporating a gospel theme that the KFCB contends invites mockery towards the Christian religion. Furthermore, the Board asserts that the song includes elements of nudity and vulgarity, promoting violent and imitable behaviors, causing concern about its potential negative impact on impressionable audiences, especially minors.
William Getumbe’s track, “Yesu Ninyandue,” has faced criticism for its perceived sinful nature and its potential to offend religious sensitivities.
Nelly Muluka, the Acting CEO of KFCB, has identified the works of Embarambamba and Getumbe as violations of the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya. This legislation mandates the examination and approval of all content before public distribution or exhibition.
Muluka stated, “The song titled ‘Niko Uchi,’ which purports to be gospel, invites ridicule towards the Christian religion. It also contains nudity and vulgarity. It has further been noted that some of the artist’s dancing styles are violent, and others present imitable behavior, which, if copied by children/minors, can be dangerous and disastrous.”
In response to these concerns, KFCB has issued demand letters to both artists, instructing them to remove inappropriate content from their respective platforms. Failure to comply with these directives may lead to legal repercussions, as stipulated by the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222.
Furthermore, KFCB has contacted relevant media platforms, urging them to take down the contentious material by Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe. The Board emphasized, “A demand letter has been issued to (Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe) to pull down any inappropriate content from their various platforms. Failure to do so will result in legal consequences in line with the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya. Letters have been issued to relevant platforms to pull down the inappropriate content by Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe.”
