Daddy Owen: Stop Mocking Persons with Disabilities Online, It’s Inhumane and Dangerous

Gospel artist and disability activist Daddy Owen has spoken out strongly against the rising trend of mocking persons with disabilities on social media, calling it a shameful reflection of moral decay in the digital age. On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the musician took to his social platforms to express disappointment over how some Kenyans are using their online influence to insult and demean people living with disabilities.

“As a disability activist, I am deeply saddened and appalled by individuals who have chosen to misuse their social platforms to insult and demean persons with disabilities and their conditions. I strongly condemn such reprehensible behaviour,” he stated.

Daddy Owen described such mockery as not only disrespectful but also a serious violation of human dignity. He noted that this behaviour risks giving the government more grounds to enforce restrictive laws such as the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, which has recently sparked public debate.

“These actions only serve to legitimise the government’s enforcement of laws such as the Cybercrime Bill. We must not allow our own misconduct to become the justification for policies that may ultimately infringe upon fundamental freedoms and human rights,” he warned.

Why does Daddy Owen say empathy is essential?

The singer reminded Kenyans that disability is not a personal choice but a circumstance that can happen to anyone. “Let me remind everyone of a profound truth, disability is a club that anyone can join at any moment. Some are born into it, but the majority acquire disabilities through unforeseen circumstances such as accidents or medical conditions. No one is immune,” he said.

Daddy Owen urged his followers to replace mockery with empathy, adding that respect and understanding should always guide how people treat one another, both online and offline. “As the Swahili proverb wisely cautions: ‘Usitukane wakunga na uzazi ungalipo,’” he added, meaning “Do not insult midwives while you are still capable of giving birth.”

A call for compassion in digital spaces

Over the years, Daddy Owen has been one of Kenya’s most consistent advocates for disability inclusion and awareness. His latest message comes at a time when online spaces are increasingly being used to spread hate and ridicule instead of compassion and understanding.

He reminded Kenyans that mocking people with disabilities undermines the shared values of equality and dignity. His call was clear, social media should be a place that uplifts, not one that destroys.

By challenging the culture of online ridicule, Daddy Owen continues to use his voice to promote empathy and accountability, urging a generation to choose kindness over cruelty in every digital interaction.

By Modester Nasimiyu