The Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua, has strongly criticized the viral mapangale dance style, which has gained widespread attention online.
Mutua has opposed the dance for allegedly promoting violence against women.
He claims that the content associated with Mapangale is harmful and has been flagged by the Interior Ministry for its negative influence.
The Mapangale dance, created by MC Zendiambo, has sparked controversy due to its violent gestures.
In the dance, one dancer simulates the act of cutting with a machete, while the other mimics being the victim. The male dancer typically plays the role of the aggressor, and the female dancer portrays the victim.
This performance has raised concerns, with Ezekiel Mutua criticizing it for promoting violence, leading to the Interior Ministry flagging the content.
He revealed that the Interior Ministry had flagged the song and sought MCSK’s intervention to address the issue amicably.
“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 stated.
Mutua criticized the Mapangale dance for its violent portrayal, highlighting the timing amidst rising femicide cases in the country.
He argued that simulating an attack with a machete promotes violence against women and is harmful, even if unintended by the artist.
Mutua stated that the government is investigating whether the song violates laws and warned it could be removed from streaming platforms if deemed harmful.
He noted that rushing to ban the song or condemn the artist would be premature without thorough findings.
In addition, Mutua expressed support for understanding the artist’s perspective and urged a resolution that takes all views into account.
The dance has ignited widespread debate, with some critics questioning its suitability due to its violent imagery, while others defend it as a form of entertainment.
The controversy focuses on concerns about its portrayal of gender-based violence and its potential impact, prompting divided opinions on whether it should be restricted or allowed as artistic expression.
