The British Broadcasting Corporation faced criticism after editing out a filmmaker’s reference to 'free Palestine' during its broadcast of the British Academy Film Awards ceremony. British-Nigerian director Akinola Davies Jr. made the remark while accepting the award for outstanding debut by a British writer, director or producer for his film 'My Father's Shadow,' co-written with his brother Wale Davies.

In his speech, Davies dedicated the award to migrants and people living under occupation, dictatorship and persecution, saying their stories matter. The final portion of his remarks, which included references to several countries and the phrase 'free Palestine,' was not included in the televised version, though it was delivered during the live event.

The broadcaster said the ceremony, originally three hours long, had to be reduced to fit a two-hour time slot and that other speeches were also trimmed for time. Human rights organization Amnesty described the edit as 'shameful' and praised Davies for speaking up for people facing persecution and mass atrocities.