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Content creators have responded to what they consider a harsh rule by the government targeting creatives
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In a statement, they noted that a lot of people depend on them for a living, saying this would affect their livelihoods
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YY Comedian and Mulamwah also blasted the government, arguing that the ban lacks logic
Celebrities and content creators have joined forces to ask the government to lift the ban on their involvement in betting advertisements.
This comes just days after the government, through the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), introduced new gambling advertisement guidelines following a month-long media ban.
What were the guidelines against celebrities advertising betting?
These rules are aimed at regulating betting promotions and ensuring responsible advertising practices.
To protect minors, gambling ads were prohibited near schools, religious institutions, and child-friendly spaces like playgrounds and malls.
The restrictions aimed to minimise exposure to betting promotions.
The ban on celebrities, influencers, and content creators in gambling advertisements was a significant change in the entertainment industry.
This rule was meant to prevent the glamourisation of betting on social media.
Celebrities and content creators respond to govt
In a heated presser at the Kenya National Theatre on Wednesday, June 4, several influencers and content creators hit back at the government, urging them to rethink their decision.
YY Comedian was upset by the move, calling it unfair and lacking logic, as other traditional media players were still allowed to showcase betting ads.
“To us this is not about regulating and helping youth, if it was about that I think we would have not targeted a segment only. This comes out as hypocrisy rather than regulation,” he said.
Mulamwah noted that entertainers can be used to positively influence gamblers on responsible betting, and instead of banning them, especially while other media outlets are still allowed.
He noted that the creators were making an income that was distributed amongst other people who worked in their teams and would ultimately result in a lack of salary.
He said that influencers can be ‘used for good’ by having them share messages on responsible betting and creating awareness on gambling addiction.
Mulamwah also reminded BCLB to ensure that illegal betting sites are terminated and licenses revoked.
Sports journalist Eric Njiru also mentioned that the top sports teams in Kenya are sponsored by betting companies and wondered how their players, who are widely considered celebrities, would be exempt from the rule.
Media personality Silva Kido urged the government to avoid appearing to be fighting the creative industry, saying creatives were learned individuals trying to make a living.
He also told
.co.ke
:
“Content creation has helped brighten a lot of youths’ lives, and it will be an injustice to stop them from making a living. As a product of the creative economy and journalism school, I have seen how this side of work has created jobs, and it would only look like they are fighting the future.”
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Through their lawyer, Hansen Omida, the creative community also released a statement giving the government 48 hours to respond to their demands.
They said the interaction should be responsibly managed, urging BCLB to suspend the ban and introduce positive dialogue instead.
Bahati responds to betting ban
Earlier, singer Bahati also responded to a letter from BCLB, lauding them for their commitment and support to push the message of responsible betting.
He also sent a message to customers of his betting company, noting that they should ‘cheza safe’.
Bahati promised to be a responsible betting ambassador, owing to his conversations with the government.
