Kenyan content creator Kelvin Kinuthia has found himself at the centre of an online debate after his remarks about using ladies’ washrooms sparked mixed reactions from Kenyans.
According to a report by K24 Digital published on October 24, 2026, Kinuthia openly acknowledged using women’s washrooms following comments by fellow cross-dresser Jony the Hairdresser, who explained why he prefers ladies’ facilities because of his feminine appearance.
Kinuthia had earlier written on social media, “At least now we can breathe yes we use the ladies washroom. The question is answered,” adding his voice to a discussion that has generated questions about privacy, personal safety and the use of gender-separated public facilities.
The conversation has since attracted attention online, with some Kenyans questioning whether appearance alone should determine which washroom a person uses, while others have raised concerns about protecting women and children in public facilities.
Why the washroom debate started
The controversy began after Jony the Hairdresser, whose real name is John Mokuna Mungai, discussed his washroom choices during an interview with media personality Kwambox on October 22.
Jony explained that his dressing, limited facial hair and relatively soft voice often make people perceive him as a woman. He said these factors influence his decision to use ladies’ washrooms when in public.
He also revealed that he informs club bouncers that he is a man before entering entertainment venues to avoid possible misunderstandings.
Kinuthia subsequently weighed in, confirming that he also uses ladies’ washrooms. His remarks quickly fuelled debate among Kenyans, with some questioning the practice and others highlighting the difficulties cross-dressers face in public spaces.
Kenyans question privacy and safety
Some of the reactions shared by members of the public focused on the safety of women and children, while others responded with humour and suspicion.
One commenter asked a question that captured the concerns being raised: “The main question is would you feel safe mtoto wako akiingia Kwa Choo Na another gender just coz they dress like a lady?”
Another netizen joked about the possibility of introducing a third option for public washrooms, writing: “At this rate, we just need a third door labeled ‘It’s Complicated’ 🚪😂”
Other reactions suggested that Kinuthia understood how to respond to the controversy without escalating it.
“Kinuthia understands how to play it safe mmeona response yake,” one commenter wrote.
Another person speculated about the business implications of the response, saying, “This is how you play it ukijua kuna endorsement deals behind you.”
The comments reflect the different opinions emerging from the debate, although the claims about endorsement deals remain speculation rather than established facts.
A wider conversation about public facilities
The debate has reopened questions about how public establishments can balance privacy, safety, dignity and access to washrooms.
Kinuthia has previously spoken about difficulties accessing men’s washrooms, explaining in a 2022 interview that his appearance sometimes led people to direct him towards women’s facilities.
For now, the latest discussion continues to generate reactions online, with Kenyans divided over the issue. While concerns about privacy and children’s safety remain central to the conversation, others are calling attention to the challenges faced by people whose appearance does not match conventional expectations.
The discussion highlights the need for respectful debate and practical approaches to washroom access without making unsupported assumptions about individuals.