The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has demanded an immediate and public apology from TikTokers and other social media users who have been mocking RailaJunior’s health condition, terming their actions as a gross violation of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
In a strongly worded statement, KNCHR said it has documented several social media posts and videos that targeted a person living with disability for ridicule and public shaming.
“An immediate public apology from all individuals who have participated in the ridicule of persons with disabilities, with a commitment to non-repetition of the offense. The KNCHR has the social media accounts and will in due cours,e release their identities.
“Failure to the account holders to issue a public apology, the KNCHR will work with relevant institutions to have the alleged perpetrators of this violation face the law as provided in Section 67 of the Persons with Disabilities Act or other relevant laws,” KNCHR said
The commission condemned the online challenge and trolling spree as a “deeply concerning act” that violates the Constitution of Kenya and international human rights obligations.
“Failing to treat persons living with disability with dignity is not only a violation of the Constitution but also an infringement of their human rights as provided by the newly enacted Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025,” the statement reads in part.
KNCHR, which serves as Kenya’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and the official monitoring agency for the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), warned that those found culpable would face legal action if they fail to apologize publicly.
“The Commission has the social media accounts involved and will, in due course, release their identities. Should they fail to issue a public apology, KNCHR will collaborate with relevant institutions to ensure they face the law,” said KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah.
Under Section 67 of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, anyone who knowingly or voluntarily engages in the degrading treatment of a person with disability — through words, signs, or visible representations — commits an offence punishable by a fine not exceeding Ksh 1 million, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
The Commission also called for enhanced vigilance and enforcement by state agencies, particularly the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), to ensure the full implementation of the law and protection of all Kenyans living with disabilities.
Kenya’s legal framework, KNCHR noted, has long upheld the rights to equality, human dignity, and protection from discrimination, as guaranteed under Articles 27, 28, and 29 of the Constitution.
The 2025 Act further strengthens these rights by providing mechanisms for redress through the High Court in cases of abuse or discrimination.
“Both rights holders and duty bearers must respect human rights obligations. Every Kenyan has a role to play in protecting the dignity of persons with disabilities,” the Commission emphasized.
KNCHR reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting human rights for all, vowing to continue raising awareness, reviewing policies, and ensuring Kenya meets its constitutional and international obligations to persons with disabilities.
“As the designated monitoring agency for the CRPD, KNCHR remains steadfast in ensuring that the rights of persons with disabilities are respected, protected, and fulfilled — at all times and by all people,” said Ogangah.
The Commission concluded with a reminder of its guiding principle: “Haki kwa Wote, Kila Wakati” — justice for all, at all times.
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