KNCHR threatens legal action amid outrage after social media trend ridicules Raila Odinga Junior
In recent days, following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, social media has been flooded with an insensitive online challenge mocking his son, Raila Odinga Junior.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has strongly condemned a troubling online challenge targeting persons with disabilities, describing it as a violation of constitutional rights and human dignity.
In a statement, KNCHR emphasised that failing to treat persons with disabilities with dignity not only breaches Kenya’s Constitution but also contravenes the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025.
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The Commission highlighted that Article 10 of the Constitution guarantees inherent dignity and equal rights for every individual, while Articles 27, 28, and 29 protect equality, human dignity, and freedom from violence, exploitation, and abuse.
“Any person who voluntarily or knowingly commits or abets degrading treatment of a person with disability through words, signs, or visual representations commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding one million shillings, imprisonment for up to one year, or both,” the statement warned, citing Section 67 of the Act.
Rights protection
KNCHR, which monitors Kenya’s compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), noted that the country has a long-standing commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
The 2003 Persons with Disabilities Act laid the groundwork for these protections, which have now been strengthened by the 2025 law. The legislation provides a clear path for redress, allowing individuals to approach the High Court to enforce their rights and seek remedies for violations.
The Commission called on those participating in the online challenge to issue immediate public apologies and commit to non-repetition. KNCHR stated it has identified the relevant social media accounts and will work with authorities to ensure that perpetrators face legal consequences if they fail to comply.
Enforce the law
Additionally, the commission urged state agencies, particularly the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), to intensify efforts to fully implement and enforce the law.
KNCHR reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to protect the rights of all Kenyans and pledged continued vigilance in promoting awareness, reviewing policies, and investigating violations affecting persons with disabilities.
In recent days, following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, social media has been flooded with an insensitive online challenge mocking his son, Raila Odinga Junior.
The trend, which involves users imitating or ridiculing Junior’s facial appearance, has drawn widespread condemnation from Kenyans and public figures, who have called for empathy and respect during a time of mourning.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura was among those speaking out against the trend.
"It's very wrong to mock someone based on their appearance due to an inherent condition. It's even horrendous to create a 'challenge' to body shame. Such behaviour reflects more on your poor character and upbringing in the name of content creation," Mwaura said.
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