Photo: Wahome Thuku/Facebook
Nairobi-based lawyer Wahome Thuku has raised concern over what he describes as the growing normalisation of violence in Kenyan communities, warning that many perpetrators are exposing themselves to serious criminal charges without realising it.
In a statement shared online, Thuku said violent acts are increasingly being treated as acceptable, especially when circulated on social media.
He noted that Kenyans regularly encounter videos showing people being beaten in homes, schools, or public spaces, a trend he said reflects a worrying shift in societal attitudes.
The city lawyer warned that if the trend continues, cases of children returning home with injuries inflicted by teachers or guardians could become more common.
While some incidents may appear more frequent because they are now captured on camera, Thuku argued that the underlying behaviour remains deeply troubling.
He observed that some individuals seem to “wake up determined to beat someone,” whether it is their spouse, child, or even a stranger.
Thuku stressed that such actions, regardless of justification, amount to criminal conduct under Kenyan law.
Thuku specifically cautioned parents and guardians who still believe corporal punishment is legally safe.
He explained that beating a child, especially where injuries are sustained, can lead to an assault charge.
According to him, many offenders are shocked when they find themselves arrested over acts they assumed were private disciplinary matters.
The lawyer further highlighted the legal weight carried by medical evidence in assault cases.
He noted that once a doctor or clinical officer testifies in court and produces a P3 form, the accused person’s chances of acquittal drop significantly.
Even with strong legal representation, Thuku said assault cases supported by medical reports are often difficult to defend.
He urged Kenyans to exercise restraint and seek non-violent ways of resolving conflict, warning that a single moment of anger could easily lead to jail time.