MCSK’s Ezekiel Mutua Criticizes Mapangale for Promoting Violence Against Women
The Mapangale dance, a viral trend ignited by Kenyan artist MC Zendiambo, has sparked heated debate across the nation, drawing sharp criticism from Ezekiel Mutua, CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK).
Known for his unwavering advocacy for moral values, Mutua has called for an immediate halt to the dance, describing it as “harmful” and “not funny.”
The Mapangale choreography features two dancers mimicking the act of cutting with a panga, often with a male dancer portraying the ‘cutter’ and a female dancer playing the ‘recipient.’
This stylized performance, though intended as entertainment, has raised alarm for normalizing violent imagery.
Mutua revealed that the Interior Ministry has flagged the associated song for review, opting to involve MCSK in addressing the matter rather than pursuing direct legal action.
“The Interior Ministry flagged the song. They have the capacity to prosecute the artist, but they chose a more constructive approach by involving MCSK. Our role is to support musicians while promoting decency. I have watched the video, but I fail to see any positive motivation behind it—it normalises violence,” Mutua explained.
He expressed grave concern about the dance’s impact, especially in the context of Kenya’s rising cases of gender-based violence. “This song promotes violence against women. One dancer simulates attacking his partner with a panga. How is that not promoting violence? It’s not funny; it’s harmful. While the artist might not have intended harm, they should accept constructive criticism,” he stated.
Mutua further noted that the government is investigating the song to determine if it violates any laws. If deemed harmful, it could be removed from streaming platforms. Nevertheless, he urged for dialogue and restraint, appealing to Kenyans to refrain from sharing the dance while seeking a resolution.
“The government is conducting a thorough investigation. We can’t rush to ban the song or condemn the artist without proper findings. For now, I encourage everyone to stop sharing and promoting it. I’m on the side of the artist and want to understand their perspective,” Mutua concluded.
The controversy has divided public opinion, with some viewing Mapangale as entertainment while others criticize it as glorifying violence.
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MCSK’s Ezekiel Mutua Criticizes Mapangale for Promoting Violence Against Women
