An online debate over access to gender-specific public restrooms has erupted after Kenyan cross-dressers Kelvin Kinuthia and John Mokuna Mungai, popularly known as Johny the Hairdresser, disclosed that they use women’s facilities.
The discussion began during an interview with media personality Kwambox, where Johny explained that his feminine appearance, soft voice and dressing style often lead people to mistake him for a woman.
He said he opts for women’s restrooms and routinely informs security personnel of his identity when visiting entertainment venues to avoid misunderstandings.
The debate gained momentum shortly afterwards when Kinuthia also confirmed on social media that he uses women’s facilities, addressing questions from followers about his choice of public restrooms.
Their remarks drew mixed reactions online, with critics raising concerns about privacy and security in spaces reserved for women. Some argued that women’s restrooms serve private needs beyond using the toilet, including changing clothes and caring for young children.
Others called for more inclusive public infrastructure, including additional facilities that could accommodate people whose gender expression does not conform to conventional expectations.
However, some supporters argued that men’s restrooms could expose feminine-presenting men to harassment or assault, highlighting the difficulties they may face when choosing which facilities to use.
The debate has also raised questions about how public venues should manage access to gender-specific facilities, particularly when individuals face conflicting expectations about where they should use the restroom.
Amid the backlash, Kinuthia said he would temporarily use portable toilets as discussions over the matter continue.
In a video shared on Instagram, he addressed the public reaction, captioning it: “Mnaover do sasa. Hadi mob justice.”