Somali ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, has condemned the actions of a group of youths who were filmed stepping on the Kenyan flag at Nyayo Stadium during a continental football fixture.
The incident occurred on Sunday during the preliminary CAF tie between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu City Club, where the hosts secured a 3-1 victory.
Videos of the flag desecration quickly went viral, sparking outrage among Kenyans and calls for swift action against those involved.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, Ambassador Abdulle described the incident as both regrettable and unrepresentative of Somalia’s values.
“Let me state clearly that we regret and firmly condemn the actions of a few individuals whose behaviour has overshadowed the remarkable performances of both teams,” he said.
“Such incidents do not reflect the values of respect, friendship, and shared sovereignty that guide the relationship between the two countries.”
The ambassador confirmed that investigations are underway to establish the identities of those involved and possible action to be taken.
In response to mounting public anger, Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized that desecrating national symbols is a punishable offense.
He cited the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act, which regulates the use of the country’s symbols and prescribes penalties for misuse.
“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 stated during the 45th Jukwaa la Usalama tour in Wajir.
The incident has reignited discussions on respect for national symbols and the need for sports to remain a platform for unity, diplomacy, and mutual respect.