A recent incident involving Mogadishu City FC fans mocking the Kenyan flag during a CAF Confederation Cup clash with Kenya Police FC has reignited debate on how national symbols should be treated under Kenyan law.
Viral videos showed fans trampling the flag, throwing it on the ground, and rubbing it against their bodies — actions that sparked widespread outrage from Kenyans.
Article 9 of the Constitution recognizes the national flag, anthem, coat of arms, and public seal as official symbols of sovereignty and unity. The Second Schedule even outlines the flag’s design and symbolism: black for the people, red for blood shed for freedom, green for the land, and white for peace.
Beyond symbolism, the National Symbols, Emblems and Names Act (CAP 99) sets penalties for disrespect. Section 2(b) states that showing disrespect toward the anthem or flag is a criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to Ksh.5,000, six months in prison, or both.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja have ordered investigations into the Nyayo Stadium incident, warning that such acts will not go unpunished. Somalia’s ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, also condemned the incident as regrettable and contrary to bilateral friendship.
Unlike countries such as the US, where flag burning may be considered free speech, Kenyan law is explicit: the flag must be respected at all times — in sport, protest, or public gatherings.
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-09-25-explainer-what-law-says-about-disrespecting-kenyan-flag
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