Kenyan court jails two attackers in rare victory for queer rights -- draft ready to go

Two people who assaulted and robbed two gay men in Nairobi have been sentenced to 15 years in prison, in a case widely welcomed by LGBTQ+ rights advocates as a rare moment of justice in Kenya’s increasingly hostile environment for queer people. The pair, named in court records as “Abel Meli & Another,” were convicted of robbery with violence on 3 March at Milimani law courts.

Njeri Gateru, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, described the ruling as a significant moment of hope, noting that Kenya’s queer community continues to face criminalisation, stigma and rising violence. She said the verdict shows that “some of us still trust that we can find justice.”

Kenya remains one of 31 African countries that criminalise same-sex relations, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison, and queer people often conceal their identities to avoid discrimination. Advocacy groups report escalating hostility, driven by a shrinking legal space for LGBTQ+ rights, reduced funding for community organisations and a growing global anti‑rights movement.

Human rights groups have tracked a steep rise in blackmail and extortion targeting queer people, often accompanied by violence. Ishtar, an organisation supporting MSM communities, recorded 226 cases in 2025 and 61 in the first two months of 2026. The situation is further inflamed by the Family Protection Bill 2023, introduced by MP Peter Kaluma, which proposes harsher penalties for same-sex relations, restrictions on LGBTQ‑inclusive education and limits on freedom of expression. Advocates say the uncertainty surrounding the bill has fuelled fear and emboldened anti‑rights groups, including churches encouraging congregations to identify queer people.

Even reporting violence remains difficult. A paralegal from Ishtar said victims are often harassed or dismissed when seeking help from police. The national police spokesperson said he was unaware of such claims but stated that officers would act if given evidence.

This ruling offers a rare sign of accountability in a country where queer people face criminalisation, discrimination and escalating violence, highlighting both the dangers and the urgent need for protection.