The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has raised alarms over a disturbing social media trend mocking Raila Odinga Junior, warning that such acts undermine the dignity of persons with disabilities and breach the law.
In an official statement on Wednesday, KNCHR described the online challenge as offensive and degrading, stressing that individuals who participate could face criminal charges.
The commission highlighted that targeting people with disabilities violates both the Constitution and the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025.
KNCHR emphasized that Article 10 of the Constitution guarantees the dignity of every person, while Articles 27, 28, and 29 protect citizens from discrimination, 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 commission warned, citing Section 67 of the Act.
The commission, which monitors Kenya’s compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, said the country has a longstanding commitment to protecting disability rights. The 2003 law established initial safeguards, and the 2025 legislation has strengthened avenues for justice, including the right to approach the High Court for enforcement and remedies.
KNCHR called on those involved in the trend to issue public apologies and cease harmful actions immediately. The commission said it has already identified the responsible accounts and will work with authorities to ensure offenders are held accountable if they ignore the warnings.
The body also urged the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and other relevant agencies to step up efforts to fully implement and enforce disability laws. KNCHR reaffirmed its role in promoting awareness, reviewing policies, and investigating cases affecting persons with disabilities.
The online challenge emerged in the days following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, with some users mocking his son’s facial features. The trend has drawn condemnation from the public and leaders, who insist that empathy and respect must prevail during the period of mourning.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura denounced the behavior, stating, “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.”
KNCHR made it clear that it will not hesitate to take legal steps to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and deter similar conduct in the future.
