The Kenya Films and Classification Board has pumped the brakes on exhibition, distribution, and broadcast of the internationally nominated local film Rafiki.
The film, a brainchild of internationally acclaimed producer Wanuri Kahiu is set to have its world premiere in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard next month. The film is the story of two teenage girls who develop a romance that’s opposed by their families and community.
Making the official announcement, KFCB Chairman Ezekiel Mutua noted that the film shows homosexual scenes counter to the law, the culture and the moral values of the Kenyan people. He added, “It is our considered view that the moral of the story in this film is to legitimize lesbianism in Kenya contrary to the law and the Board’s content classification guidelines.”
In a TV interview, Kahiu Said she was “incredibly disappointed” with the decision of the board. She added, “Rafiki is a reflection of society, and we need to be having conversations about what is happening in our society. But unfortunately, because the film has been banned, we’ll be unable to have these conversations.”
The board has been on a crackdown targeting content that presumably promotes the gay and lesbian notion which Mr. Mutua terms as retrogressive and bizarre.
