By Our Correspondent
The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has urged Kenyans to stop circulating intimate videos and images shared without consent, citing growing concern over online harassment and legal liability.
The call follows the circulation of a viral video showing Marion Naipei Sinkeet, a young woman filmed in a vulnerable state at a Nairobi entertainment venue. The clip spread rapidly on social media, prompting public outrage, condemnation from rights groups and government intervention.
FIDA-Kenya said the non-consensual distribution of private material violates fundamental rights protected under Kenyan law, including the Constitution’s guarantees of dignity and privacy, the Data Protection Act and provisions in the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.
The premier women’s rights organization warned that reposting or commenting on such material can harm the people involved and expose sharers to prosecution.
“The viral videos should never be used to justify violating the personal rights guaranteed by Kenyan law,” Christine Kungu, the FIDA-Kenya chairperson said in a statement to newsrooms.
The group also urged respect for due process while investigations continue. FIDA-Kenya emphasized the importance of public awareness on digital safety and responsible online conduct.
Marion has publicly said she did not consent to being filmed or having the footage shared online, describing herself as traumatized by the experience.
Government agencies have reportedly begun probing the incident, with police arresting suspects linked to the initial leak of the video.
Gender Cabinet Secretary, Hannah Wendot Cheptumo and Gender Permanent Secretary, Anne Wang’ombe have since condemned the viral clip as a violation of human dignity and pledged action under existing law.