Riara University has released a statement condemning a viral bullying video that has been making rounds on social media since Friday morning. The video shows several female students threatening and assaulting a fellow student, Jahenda, in a club restroom. The university has expressed its disappointment, stating that the behavior depicted in the video does not represent the values of the institution.
The incident has drawn widespread criticism from Kenyans online, with many calling for the expulsion of the students involved. Musician Nameless was among those who condemned the incident, describing the behavior as "totally disgusting." The video shows a group of girls recording and laughing as they harass Jahenda, with one girl, Vania, pushing Jahenda around and using threatening language.
Riara University has initiated an internal review of the matter, in accordance with its Student Code of Conduct and institutional policies. The university has also stated that it is committed to cooperating with investigative authorities. Although the alleged event occurred off-campus, the university has taken swift action, launching an investigation into the incident.
In a related development, Redeemed Gospel Church (RGC) Buruburu Church has also responded to the bullying video. The church has stated that it was saddened to learn that one of the ladies in the video was a member of their congregation. The church has acknowledged the incident with seriousness and humility, emphasizing that an individual's actions cannot be attributed to or presented as the position of the church.
The church has apologized to Jahenda and called for accountability and healing. The church's statement emphasizes that affiliation with the church does not place anyone above the principles of responsibility, respect, and accountability. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans urging both the authorities and the school to mete out punishment.
Two of the bullies in the video, including Vanayah, have apologized for their actions. Vanayah expressed disappointment in herself and stated that she would change her behavior. Despite the apologies, Kenyans are calling for action under the hashtag #JusticeforJahenda. The incident has raised concerns about bullying and violence in schools, with many calling for stricter measures to prevent such incidents.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the university and church working together to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting a culture of respect and accountability in schools and communities.
Key points
- Riara University has launched an investigation into the bullying incident and has condemned the behavior depicted in the viral video.
- The church has apologized to the victim and called for accountability and healing.
- Two of the bullies in the video have apologized for their actions, but Kenyans are still calling for punishment under the hashtag #JusticeforJahenda.
