Explainer: What the law says about charging minors in Kenya
Children in conflict with the law are not immune from prosecution in Kenya, but the law requires that their cases be handled with their rights and best interests at the center. - Kenya breaking news | Kenya news today | Capitalfm.co.ke..
✨ Key Highlights
Two teenagers, aged 17 and 14, appeared before the Milimani Children's Court for allegedly desecrating the Kenyan national flag during a CAF Champions League match in Nairobi. This incident sparked discussion on how Kenyan law treats minors accused of crimes, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
- The 14 and 17-year-olds fall within the age bracket where criminal charges can be sustained.
- Minors are tried in specialized Children's Courts, with strict privacy rules prohibiting the publication of identifying details, and are entitled to legal representation, including state-funded lawyers for those under 16.
- The National Flag, Emblems and Names Act (Cap 99), under which they may be charged, carries a fine not exceeding Sh5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both, but requires the written consent of the Attorney-General for prosecution.
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Two Somali Teens Detained Over Kenyan Flag Desecration at Nyayo Stadium - September 2025
Two Somali teenagers, aged 17 and 14, were arrested in Nairobi for allegedly desecrating the Kenyan flag. The incident occurred during a CAF Champions League football match at Nyayo Stadium between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu FC and was captured on a viral video. The two appeared before the Milimani Children’s Court and have been detained pending a social inquiry report. The case has sparked a debate regarding the legal handling of minors in Kenya, with the law emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
