Kenyan courts uphold ban on GLAAD Media Award-nominated LGBTQ film ‘Rafiki’

The LGBTQ film RAFIKI lost its long-awaited Freedom of Expression ruling in Kenya’s high courts, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by the film’s director, Wanuri Kahiu.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share news about the court ruling for Freedom of Expression and the unconstitutionality of banning RAFIKI,” wrote Kahiu. “We lost this time. RAFIKI remains banned in Kenya and Freedom of Expression of any LGBT themed work remains silenced. We will appeal and continue our fight for Freedom of Expression.”

“Thank you for supporting us thus far. Stay safe. A luta continua!” her statement concluded.