A recent video showing Mogadishu City Club supporters trampling the Kenyan flag after a clash with Kenya Police FC at Nyayo National Stadium has sparked debate across the country.
Many Kenyans are asking whether the act was simply disrespectful or actually illegal.
Few people realize that Kenya has strict rules governing the use and display of the national flag under the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act.
This law, first passed in 1963 and later revised, was created to protect the dignity of the flag and other state symbols, including the coat of arms, public seal, and national anthem.
The law clearly states that the national flag is not just an ordinary item. It cannot be shown on private property except on public holidays or other occasions approved by the President.
Regulations introduced in 1965 also forbid flying the flag on vehicles, except those used by top government officials such as the President, Deputy President, Chief Justice, Speaker of the National Assembly, Cabinet Secretaries, and Attorney General.
Penalties for Misuse
Anyone who displays a flag or banner falsely representing Kenya or any part of the country commits an offence. The law allows for a fine of up to Sh5,000, a jail term of up to six months, or both.
Wearing the National Assembly badge or its likeness without being a member of Parliament can lead to a fine of Sh2,000, up to two months in prison, or both.
The Act also forbids using the national flag for business or profit. Authorities have stressed that the flag is a symbol of national pride and must always be respected.
Respoding to the viral video, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned that anyone found disrespecting Kenya’s flag or symbols will face legal consequences.
Murkomen condemned the September 20 incident.
“Many people don't know that there is the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act. I urge the Inspector General of Police to ensure the law takes its course,” he said. Murkomen explained that these symbols represent Kenya’s unity, pride, and sovereignty. “When you joke with our symbols of national unity and pride, you have overstayed your welcome,” he added.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed investigations are ongoing. “Desecration of national symbols is a serious offence, and those involved will face the full force of the law,” he said.
The club apologized for the actions of its supporters.
“On behalf of Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the government and people of Kenya. Such behaviour has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents,” the club said.
Somalia’s Ambassador Reacts
Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, also condemned the incident. Speaking at the Somali Embassy in Nairobi, he praised the visiting team but regretted the actions of some supporters.
“We regret and firmly condemn the actions of a few individuals whose behavior has overshadowed the remarkable performance of both teams,” Jibril said. He emphasized that the Kenya-Somalia relationship remains strong, with growing cooperation in trade, education, security, investment, and cultural exchange.
The ambassador also praised the Kenya Police Service, Kenya Police FC, the Football Kenya Federation, and Sports Kenya for their professionalism in ensuring the safety of players and fans while supporting the friendly spirit of the competition.
