Controversial gospel artist Ringtone Apoko, who also identifies as the "Chairman of Gospel", has thrown his full support behind the recent ban by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) on celebrities advertising betting.
In a candid and impassioned interview with bloggers, Ringtone expressed his strong disapproval of influencers promoting gambling, citing biblical principles and the detrimental impact on Kenyan youth. His remarks come amidst complaints from other artists who claim the ban has crippled their livelihoods.
A Firm Stand Against "Easy Money"
Ringtone, who frequently references his role as chairman of the gospel fraternity, firmly states, "As the chairman of the gospel, I reject gambling. I say the government should continue to clamp down. Clamp down completely. Reject completely so that young people don't think that you can make easy money."
He asserts that the entire industry should not depend on gambling and challenges those complaining.
"Is the whole industry dependent on gambling? No. And if gambling affects their fans, why do they support it?"
Drawing on scripture, Ringtone quotes 1 Timothy 6:10, emphasizing that "the love of money is the root of evil".
He differentiates between gambling for essential items like school books or trips, which he considers okay, and gambling purely for quick cash. "But what's there is money. Invest money and get easy money," he laments, illustrating how children are even sent to buy milk and gamble away the money, leaving families without essentials. He also highlighted the grave scenario of parents selling livestock for school fees, only for children to gamble it away.
Friends Feeling the Pinch?
Ringtone acknowledges that some of his peers are struggling following the ban. He specifically mentions his friends who he jokingly laughed at saying after the ban, they might be under stress.
“The likes of YY Comedian and even Mulamwah are stressed right now, their vehicles can’t move because they cannot fuel them,” he alleged.
Ringtone’s frustration is palpable as he questions why these talented individuals are not focusing on their primary crafts. He believes that these artists, whom he describes as "very good actors" and "top sana", possess talent that should not be used as a "shortcut to lure children into betting".
The Hypocrisy of Influencing Without Participating
A core argument from Ringtone is the perceived hypocrisy of influencers promoting betting without engaging in it themselves. He challenges them directly: "You guys are just telling us to bet. I don't know if any of you are betting...you guys are just talking about it, you're saying something else."
He contrasts this with forex traders who "preach what they are doing" by showing themselves trading. Ringtone urges these affected influencers to bet if they believe in it so much: "Let these people enter that site, bet, and win those jackpots they are telling people to win." He even suggested they should share testimonials of their winnings.
BCLB's Directive: A Necessary Measure
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) in Kenya has indeed been on a mission to regulate the country's booming betting industry, especially concerning advertising. Directives have been issued aimed at curbing excessive gambling, particularly among the youth.
These measures include a ban on celebrity endorsements for betting firms, as well as restrictions on advertising during specific hours and through certain platforms. The aim is to promote responsible gambling and protect vulnerable populations.
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