Eldoret-based musician William Getumbe has stirred controversy with his latest gospel track, “Yesu Ninyandue,” prompting a clash with the Kenya Classification Film Board (KFCB) and sparking debates over artistic expression and religious sensitivity.
Despite facing pressure from the KFCB to remove the song due to allegations of blasphemy, Getumbe remains steadfast in his decision to keep it accessible to his audience.
The KFCB has deemed the song blasphemous and demanded its removal, warning of legal consequences if Getumbe and fellow artiste Embarambamba fail to comply.
“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.
In an interview with TUKO.co.ke, the 48-year-old singer firmly stated his refusal to delete the song from his online platforms. He expressed readiness to defend his artistic creation and vowed to take legal action against Ezekiel Mutua, head of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), if the song were removed without his consent.
“I won’t delete my song. I invested in the song and I am ready to defend myself. If the song is deleted against wish, I will take Ezekiel Mutua to court. I am ready with my lawyers and there are many people who are willing to represent me for free. We are creating content for a global audience, so if the song has angered a section of Kenyans, it shouldn’t been removed since I created it for an international purpose. There are those who appreciate the song,” he told TUKO.co.ke.
Getumbe vehemently denies the accusations of blasphemy, asserting that “Yesu Ninyandue” carries a positive message and is not intended to mock God.
He maintains that the song was crafted for a global audience and should not be censored due to objections from a portion of the Kenyan public.
On the other hand, Mutua has called for a ban on such content, criticizing Getumbe for what he perceives as seeking attention through controversial means.
“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.
