Lupita Nyong'o, renowned Oscar-winning actress, condemns the Kenyan government's harsh tactics against anti-tax protests, echoing her family's difficult history under the Moi regime. Despite official statements, she highlights the unchanged nature of oppression and supports current youth fighting for change. Nyong'o explores African stories in her podcast 'Mind Your Own,' focusing on unique narratives beyond typical news issues.
Lupita Nyong'o Criticizes Kenya's Response to Anti-Tax Protests
Lupita Nyong'o Criticizes Kenya's Response to Anti-Tax Protests
Actress Lupita Nyong'o speaks out against police brutality in Kenya, drawing from her family's painful past during Moi's regime.
Actress Lupita Nyong'o has publicly criticized the Kenyan authorities for their severe response to recent anti-tax protests. As reported by human rights organizations, the demonstrations that started in June were met with police brutality, leading to deaths and abductions. Nyong'o, who experienced her own family's tribulations under former President Daniel arap Moi, expressed her dismay in a BBC interview, declaring the government's tactics "chilling."
Nyong'o, known for her roles in acclaimed films such as "12 Years a Slave" and "Black Panther," drew parallels between the current administration and Moi's notorious regime, under which her father was imprisoned and tortured. Despite official denial of similar parallels, Nyong'o remains outraged by the situation. Her father, Anyang' Nyong'o, now a county governor and prominent political figure, endured persecution during the oppressive 1980s under Moi.
Reflecting on the protests, she voiced her appreciation for the young activists striving for change in Kenya. She spoke emotionally about her family's escape to Mexico after her activist uncle vanished, presumed murdered during the crackdown.
The Kenyan government, represented by spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, claims to have been cooperative with protesters and promised accountability for any protest-related deaths. Nonetheless, Nyong'o's critique highlights a continued struggle against oppression.
In her podcast "Mind Your Own," Nyong'o delves into personal stories from across Africa, emphasizing diverse and often overlooked narratives. She aims to expand perceptions of African identity, steering away from familiar themes like conflict and disaster. Her father's ordeal features in an episode titled "The Freedom Fathers," the only politically themed episode, showcasing her intent to explore peculiar tales over well-trodden subjects.
The podcast boasts contributions from African creatives, reinforcing its authenticity and inclusivity. Despite its vast scope, Nyong'o acknowledges the impossibility of encapsulating all African stories in a single series. Her endeavor marks a commitment to sharing lesser-known narratives, reinforcing the multifaceted nature of African experiences.
Nyong'o, known for her roles in acclaimed films such as "12 Years a Slave" and "Black Panther," drew parallels between the current administration and Moi's notorious regime, under which her father was imprisoned and tortured. Despite official denial of similar parallels, Nyong'o remains outraged by the situation. Her father, Anyang' Nyong'o, now a county governor and prominent political figure, endured persecution during the oppressive 1980s under Moi.
Reflecting on the protests, she voiced her appreciation for the young activists striving for change in Kenya. She spoke emotionally about her family's escape to Mexico after her activist uncle vanished, presumed murdered during the crackdown.
The Kenyan government, represented by spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, claims to have been cooperative with protesters and promised accountability for any protest-related deaths. Nonetheless, Nyong'o's critique highlights a continued struggle against oppression.
In her podcast "Mind Your Own," Nyong'o delves into personal stories from across Africa, emphasizing diverse and often overlooked narratives. She aims to expand perceptions of African identity, steering away from familiar themes like conflict and disaster. Her father's ordeal features in an episode titled "The Freedom Fathers," the only politically themed episode, showcasing her intent to explore peculiar tales over well-trodden subjects.
The podcast boasts contributions from African creatives, reinforcing its authenticity and inclusivity. Despite its vast scope, Nyong'o acknowledges the impossibility of encapsulating all African stories in a single series. Her endeavor marks a commitment to sharing lesser-known narratives, reinforcing the multifaceted nature of African experiences.
