Somali ambassador apologises after youths caught disrespecting Kenyan flag
Somali Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, has issued a public apology after videos surfaced of Mogadishu City FC fans disrespecting the Kenyan flag during a CAF Champions League match against Kenya Police FC.
The envoy, alongside Mogadishu City Club officials, strongly condemned the actions, terming them unfortunate and not reflective of the values shared between Kenya and Somalia.
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“We are deeply mindful of the unfortunate incident following the recent match in Nairobi. Let me state clearly, we regret and firmly condemn the behaviour of the individuals involved, which overshadows the remarkable performance of both teams. Such incidents do not reflect the value of respect between our two brotherly nations, Kenya and Somalia,” ambassador Abdulle said on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
The apology came after viral videos from the aftermath of the game showed sections of the Mogadishu supporters desecrating the Kenyan flag. The incident occurred shortly after Kenya Police FC’s 3-1 victory over the Somali side in Nairobi.
Stomping on the Kenyan flag
In the clips that spread widely online, some youths were seen stomping on the Kenyan flag, kicking it around, and mocking it in full view of other fans. One clip showed a supporter spreading the flag on the ground before tossing it into the air, while another individual rubbed it against his body as others laughed.
In yet another recording, a fan draped in a Somali sarong grabbed the Kenyan flag from a Kenya Police FC supporter and threw it to the ground.
The disturbing scenes sparked outrage, with many calling the act a blatant show of disrespect toward Kenya’s national symbol. While Kenya Police FC’s win advanced them further in the tournament, the celebration was overshadowed by the controversy.
Ambassador Abdulle stressed that the actions of a few unruly fans should not be used to define the spirit of the competition or the relationship between the two countries.
He reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and strong diplomatic ties with Kenya.
The incident has prompted discussions within regional football circles about the need for stricter enforcement of discipline among fans during international matches, particularly when matters of national identity and pride are involved.
