The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has taken decisive action against two controversial gospel artists, Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe.
Their latest songs, “Niko Uchi” by Embarambamba and “Yesu Ninyandue” by Getumbe, sparked concerns over their inappropriate content, prompting KFCB to intervene.
In response to the outcry, KFCB issued a demand letter to both artists, instructing them to remove any offensive material from their various platforms.
“A demand letter has been issued to Embrambamba and Getumbe to remove any inappropriate content from their various platforms. Failure to comply will result in legal action in accordance with the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya,” the order read in part.
The nature of the concerns revolves around the perceived blasphemy in Getumbe’s “Yesu Ninyandue” and the purported ridicule of the Christian religion along with the presence of vulgarity in Embarambamba’s “Niko Uchi,” despite its gospel classification.
Furthermore, KFCB has highlighted certain dance moves depicted in their content as violent and potentially imitable, raising alarms about their influence on children and minors.
In addition to issuing the demand letter, KFCB has reached out to social media platforms, urging them to take down the controversial songs to prevent further dissemination of what they consider objectionable content.
Ezekiel Mutua, the CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), has aligned with KFCB’s stance. He has announced potential disciplinary actions against Embarambamba and Getumbe, including a five-year suspension from MCSK and expulsion for repeat offenses.
“Embarambamba and Getumbe obnoxious content will be deleted from social media. MCSK has also initiated the process of deregistering the two from the Society. If the resolution by a recent special AGM is upheld, the two will not be members of MCSK and will not earn any royalties for FIVE years. Repeat offences will earn them a life ban,” he wrote.
