Riara University and Redeemed Gospel Church have broken their silence after a disturbing bullying video involving a group of young women sparked outrage across Kenya and calls for justice for the victim, Jahenda.
The viral footage has left many Kenyans questioning how a confrontation could escalate into what appears to be a coordinated act of humiliation and physical intimidation.
In the video, Jahenda is surrounded by several women inside a club restroom, with some seen recording the incident as another woman allegedly pushes her around, grabs her by the throat and issues threats.
The footage has since triggered widespread condemnation online, with Kenyans demanding accountability and calling for action against those involved.
Among those reacting was musician Nameless, who described the behaviour as “totally disgusting” and condemned bullying, particularly among adults.
The incident has also put the spotlight on Riara University after some of the women featured in the video were reportedly identified as students at the institution.
In a statement, the university said it “unequivocally condemns violence, intimidation, bullying, harassment, or misconduct in any form,” stressing that the behaviour depicted does not reflect its institutional values.
Although the alleged incident happened off-campus, Riara says the conduct potentially falls within its student code of conduct and has consequently launched an internal review.
The university says it will also cooperate with investigative authorities as the circumstances surrounding the incident are established.
But the controversy has taken another turn after Redeemed Gospel Church Buruburu revealed that one of the women linked to the incident is reportedly a member of its congregation.
The church says it is “saddened” by the development and has made it clear that church affiliation cannot be used to excuse or shield anyone from accountability.
It has also expressed concern for Jahenda, calling for healing, responsibility and accountability as the matter is investigated.
Meanwhile, two of the women featured in the video have reportedly apologised.
One, identified as Vanayah, said she was genuinely disappointed in herself, took responsibility for her actions and acknowledged that the situation should have been handled differently.
But the apologies have done little to calm public anger, with Kenyans continuing to demand action from both the authorities and the university.
The growing online campaign under #JusticeForJahenda has turned the incident into a wider conversation about bullying, public humiliation, violence and accountability and whether apologies are enough when someone’s dignity and safety have been put at risk.
As investigations continue, attention now turns to what action will be taken against those involved and whether Jahenda will get the justice and accountability demanded by the public.
