The Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) has banned a Kenyan made film titled ‘I am Samuel’ for allegedly promoting homosexuality.
KFCB CEO Chris Wambua accused the producer of the film of attempting to promote same sex marriage as an acceptable way of life.
“This attempt is evident through the repeated confessions by the gay couple that what they feel for each other is normal and should be embraced as a way of life, as well as the characters’ body language, including scenes of kissing of two male lovers. The documentary ultimately features marriage of the two men, and concludes with the dedication of the film to the gay community,” Wambua stated.
KFCB said that the film intends to influence the viewers to believe that the older generation was against LGBTQ but is slowly accepting same sex marriage as a way of life.
Wambua warned that any attempts to air the film within Kenyan territory shall attract punishment.
“Any attempt to exhibit, distribute, broadcast or possess the RESTRICTED film within the Republic of Kenya shall, therefore, be met with the full force of the law,” he stated.
Wambua advised producers in to focus on producing content that is in line with the laws of the country.
“While the Board welcomes local and foreign support to our budding local film inductry, such funding should focus on production of content that is aligned with the laws of our country. Films that advocate same-sex marriage, homosexuality or any outlawed practices shall not be allowed for exhibition, broadcast or distribution within the country,” Wambua said.
‘I am Samuel’ is a 2020 film that was produced by Toni Kamau. The film features a Kenyan, Samuel Asilikwa, who narrates his experience in introducing his partner Alex to his parents.
Samuel explains the challenges of being a gay in Nairobi and how they handle rejection even from family.
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