The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has cautioned the public against the non-consensual sharing, circulation and commentary on private images and videos circulating on social media, warning that such actions violate fundamental rights and expose individuals to criminal and civil liability.
In a statement seen by Radio Generation, Chairperson Christine Kungu said FIDA-Kenya had taken note of the circulation of videos involving two individuals, which have sparked widespread public debate and concern across various digital platforms.
The organisation stressed that the non-consensual distribution of private content amounts to a serious violation of privacy, dignity and bodily autonomy.
“FIDA-Kenya wishes to emphasise that the non-consensual distribution of private images or videos violates a person’s right to privacy, dignity, and bodily autonomy and also constitutes an offence under Kenyan law,” Kungu said.
The women’s rights organisation cited several legal provisions that criminalise such acts, including Article 28 of the Constitution on human dignity, Article 31 on the right to privacy, the Data Protection Act of 2019, and Sections 37 and 42 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act of 2018.
FIDA-Kenya warned that circulating, reposting or even commenting on such material perpetuates harm to the individuals involved and contributes to a culture of online abuse.
“This perpetuates harm to those involved and to the public, and exposes individuals to legal liability,” the statement noted.
The organisation urged members of the public to exercise restraint as investigative agencies undertake appropriate action and called for respect for due process.
It also condemned online harassment, shaming and vigilante responses linked to viral content.
“The viral videos should never be used to justify violating the personal rights guaranteed by Kenyan law,” FIDA-Kenya said, adding that public curiosity or outrage does not override constitutional protections.
Kungu reiterated the organisation’s position that digital spaces must not be used to undermine human rights.
She said the federation remains committed to protecting women and girls from sexual and digital exploitation, while strengthening public awareness on responsible online conduct.
“FIDA-Kenya remains committed to promoting the protection of women and girls from all forms of sexual and digital exploitation and to strengthening public awareness on digital safety and responsible online conduct,” Kungu said.
The organisation reiterated that the evolving digital landscape requires heightened responsibility from users, particularly in an era where content can be rapidly disseminated without regard for the consequences on victims’ lives and wellbeing.
The statement comes amid growing concern over the misuse of social media platforms to share intimate content without consent, a practice rights groups say disproportionately affects women and girls and carries long-term psychological, social and legal consequences.
