Photo: File image of the Suspects
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed the arrest of a teenager linked to the viral video showing the Kenyan national flag being abused during a football match at Nyayo Stadium.
In a statement released on Thursday, September 25, DCI said the suspect, 17-year-old Ibrahim Haidar Yusuf, was one of the two young men seen in the video. The clip, which angered many Kenyans online, showed the flag being stomped and kicked during the CAF Champions League match between Mogadishu City Club and Police FC on September 20, 2025.
DCI described the act as both illegal and offensive, noting that the Kenyan flag represents the country’s values and must always be respected. Authorities also confirmed that efforts are ongoing to trace the second suspect.
Photo: Boniface Mwangi, 2027 Presidential Aspirant
However, the arrest quickly sparked debate after activist and 2027 presidential aspirant Boniface Mwangi reacted to the news. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Mwangi described the incident as “petty”, arguing that Yusuf is a minor and should not be punished harshly.
“Haidar Yusuf is a minor, and I hope he will be treated as such. The criminal justice system should be rehabilitative, not punitive, for a petty offender like him,” Mwangi wrote.
His comments drew mixed reactions from Kenyans online. Some supported him, saying the boy should be counseled instead of jailed. Others, however, felt that disrespecting the national flag is a serious matter that should not be downplayed.
Many Kenyans stressed the importance of protecting national symbols, while others said the justice system should consider the suspect’s age and circumstances before passing judgment.
The incident has now turned into a bigger national conversation—not only about patriotism and respect for the flag but also about how minors who commit offenses should be treated in the justice system.
Source: https://x.com/bonifacemwangi/status/1971168413524566213
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