The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has issued a strong statement condemning a section of TikTok users for mocking the physical appearance of Raila Odinga Jr., terming the act as cyberbullying and a violation of human rights.
According to the Commission, the online ridicule directed at Raila Jr. amounts to digital harassment, which infringes on constitutional provisions protecting every Kenyan’s dignity, equality, and privacy.
In its statement, KNCHR demanded that those responsible issue a public apology, warning that failure to do so could result in legal action. The Commission emphasized that freedom of expression does not extend to actions that demean or humiliate others based on their personal attributes.
“Mocking or demeaning any individual’s physical appearance, whether a public figure or private citizen, violates their inherent human dignity and goes against the principles of respect and equality enshrined in the Constitution,” the Commission stated.
KNCHR further urged social media users to exercise responsibility and restraint in online spaces, noting that digital platforms should be used to promote constructive dialogue rather than hate or ridicule.
The Commission also called on TikTok Kenya to take stronger action against users who spread harmful or demeaning content, warning that tolerance for such behavior encourages a culture of online abuse.
This development follows a surge of viral TikTok videos targeting Raila Odinga Jr., which have been widely criticized by both the public and human rights defenders. KNCHR’s intervention marks a growing effort to curb cyberbullying and online defamation in Kenya’s digital space.
