Somalia’s attempt to calm tensions over the desecration of the Kenyan flag
has backfired after its apology was delivered with another blunder — the Kenyan
flag was mounted upside down.
The apology came after outrage erupted when
videos circulated online showing Somali fans kicking, trampling, and rubbing
the Kenyan flag against their bodies during a CAF Champions League first-leg
clash between Kenya Police FC and Mogadishu City Club at Nyayo National Stadium
on September 20.
Condemning the incident, Somalia’s government
said the actions of “a few individuals” did not reflect the values of respect,
friendship, and sovereignty that underpin relations between the two nations.
“Let me state clearly that we regret and firmly
condemn the action of a few individuals whose behavior overshadowed the
remarkable performances of our two teams,” Somalia's ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, said.
But what was meant to be a gesture of
reconciliation quickly turned awkward.
During the official apology, the Kenyan flag was displayed upside down, a
move that, in international protocol, signals distress.
Kenyans online were quick to notice the gaffe.
Some described it as a “second
insult,” while others dismissed it as an unfortunate oversight.
“First, they disrespect the flag, then they
apologize while putting it upside down. Is this really an apology?” one user
posted.
Another asked: “Do we assume that even the
ambassador couldn’t recognize that the flag was upside down? What are they
trying to show?”
The flag mishap overshadowed the earlier
condemnation from the Mogadishu City Club itself, which had already distanced
the team from its supporters’ actions.
“On behalf of the Mogadishu City Club, we
strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the government
and people of Kenya,” the club said in a statement.
The club termed the behavior “unacceptable”
and pledged full support for any disciplinary measures against those involved.
It also urged its fans, particularly the youth, to always respect other
nations, their people, and their flags.
