Don’t Joke with the Kenyan Flag, Murkomen Issues Stern Warning, Orders Arrest Of Mogadishu FC Fans Filmed Desecrating National Symbol

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning against the desecration of Kenya’s national symbols, directing police to arrest individuals caught on video stomping on the Kenyan flag during a recent football match.

Speaking during the 45th Jukwaa La Usalama security meeting in Wajir County on Wednesday, Murkomen condemned the shocking acts that occurred during a CAF Champions League match between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu City FC at Nyayo National Stadium on September 20.

The Cabinet Secretary emphasised that such actions constitute a serious criminal offense under the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act, which governs the proper use of national symbols representing unity, pride and sovereignty.

“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,” Murkomen declared, adding that those who joke with symbols of national unity have “overstayed their welcome.”

The controversy erupted after a viral video surfaced showing a group of fans, reportedly supporters of the visiting Somali club, desecrating the Kenyan flag by placing it on chairs and repeatedly stepping on it while being filmed.

The disturbing footage sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans across social media platforms.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that the National Police Service has launched investigations to identify and prosecute those responsible for the incident. “Desecration of national symbols is a serious offence, and those involved will face the full force of the law,” Kanja stated.

The match, which Kenya Police FC won 3-1 in the first leg, was overshadowed by the actions of the unruly spectators who showed blatant disrespect for Kenya’s sovereignty.

In response to the mounting criticism, Mogadishu City Club issued a public apology, distancing itself from its fans’ behaviour.

“On behalf of Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the government and people of Kenya,” the club said in an official statement.

The Somali club emphasised that the incident does not reflect its values and pledged full cooperation with Kenyan authorities, stating that “such behaviour has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents.”

The incident has reignited discussions about respect for national symbols and the enforcement of laws protecting them. Legal experts note that the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act provides for significant penalties including imprisonment for those found guilty of desecrating national symbols.

This development comes at a time when Kenya is hosting various international sporting events, with authorities keen to project the country’s image as a welcoming yet respectful host nation that will not tolerate any form of disrespect to its sovereignty.

The Cabinet Secretary’s firm stance sends a clear message that Kenya will not compromise on matters touching on national pride and unity, regardless of the context or the nationality of the offenders.