Kenya’s Film Classification Board (KFCB) has confirmed the arrest of gospel singer William Getumbe for alleged indecent content following a seven-day demand notice for violating the Films and Stage Play Act.
According to Nelly Muluka, the acting CEO of KFCB, Getumbe was apprehended in Eldoret on Tuesday and is set to be arraigned on Wednesday. The arrest was carried out with the assistance of police from Kapsoya Police Station, as stated in a letter obtained by the Star newspaper.
In the statement, Muluka outlined the charges Getumbe faces, including filming without a license and distributing unclassified audio-visual content, both of which contravene sections of the Films and Stage Play Act. Additionally, Getumbe is accused of involvement in the distribution, public exhibition, and possession of ‘obscene’ cinematograph films, as well as the public exhibition of indecent shows, offenses punishable under the penal code.
KFCB urged the public to report any instances of indecent content shared or exhibited on social media platforms and reiterated its stance against the production and dissemination of such material.
This development comes after Getumbe and fellow gospel artist Chris Embarambamba were instructed to remove their latest songs, ‘Niko Uchi’ and ‘Yesu Ninyandue’, from all media platforms for violating the Films and Stage Plays Act. Muluka highlighted concerns over the content of ‘Niko Uchi’, citing nudity, vulgarity, and potential harm to children due to violent dancing styles and imitable behavior.
Letters have been dispatched to both Embarambamba and Getumbe, warning of legal consequences if they fail to comply with the demand to remove the content. Similar letters have been sent to platform operators instructing them to take down the inappropriate material.
