Two Somali minors accused of desecrating the Kenyan national flag during a football match at Nyayo Stadium have been released on cash bail of Ksh.50,000 each, pending further legal proceedings.
The teenagers, aged 14 and 17, were arrested on September 25 after a video circulated widely on social media showing them stepping on the Kenyan flag following a match between Mogadishu FC and Kenya Police FC.
The incident sparked public outrage, with many condemning the act as disrespectful to a national symbol.
The minors are facing three charges: being in the country illegally, damaging a national symbol the Kenyan flag and causing a public disturbance.
However, the two have yet to take a plea. During the court session, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) informed the magistrate that a probation inquiry report, which is required before the case can proceed, was not yet ready.
As a result, the court postponed the matter to October 8, 2025, when the minors are expected to reappear for further directions.
The case has drawn attention from both the public and human rights observers, given the age of the suspects and the sensitivity surrounding national symbols and immigration issues.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of upholding respect for national symbols, while legal experts urge that due process, especially involving minors, must be followed carefully in accordance with Kenyan and international child protection laws.
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