Zuchu, who hails from the semi-autonomous state of Zanzibar, has been banned by the island’s art council over inappropriate behavior during her show.
Zuchu found herself at the center of a storm following her recent performance in Zanzibar.
She faced suspension by the Zanzibar Arts, Census, Film, and Cultural Council [Baraza la Sanaa, Sensa ya Filamu na Utamaduni] (BASSFU) after her appearance at the Full Moon Kendwa Night show on February 24, 2024.
The council suspended Zuchu from performing in Zanzibar for a period of six months.
Alongside this ban, Zuchu’s songs are prohibited from being played on Zanzibar radio and television stations for a period of six months.
It was alleged that she sang songs, made remarks, and displayed gestures that were contrary to the morals of Zanzibar. Secretary Omar Abdalla Adam announced that Zuchu has been banned for a period of six months starting immediately.
“The council is responsible for upholding the customs, traditions, and culture of Zanzibar, and therefore officially announces the suspension of artist Zuhura Othman Soud (Zuchu) from engaging in any artistic activities in Zanzibar for a period of six months starting today, March 5, 2024,” he said.
He stated that they took this action due to her habit of singing songs that lack morals, do not follow principles, and are not beneficial to the people of Zanzibar.
Furthermore, despite the artiste not being registered in Zanzibar, she has been conducting her artistic activities without permission.
In addition to the suspension, Zuchu has been fined Tsh1 million by the Arts Council and required to write an apology letter confirming that she will not repeat the offense during the suspension period.
Responding to the demands by BASSFU, Zuchu recorded a video apologizing for her behavior.
“I would like to use this opportunity to apologise for the words I used in the rhyme that caused chaos at the Full Moon Party – Kendwa Beach Zanzibar festival recently. I know that the words have brought confusion to many of you and brought a negative meaning to society and my fans. My intention was to bring good entertainment and happiness to all my fans,” she said.
Pledging to avoid such incidents in the future, Zuchu emphasized her commitment to working with her team to ensure that her performances uphold moral standards and avoid controversy.
“It is not my goal to mislead, erode morals, or cause trouble for anyone. I am taking a pledge today to work with my team to ensure that such incidents do not happen again at future concerts. I apologize again to the community and the Arts Council who are my guardians,” she said.
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