Kinuthia and Johny the Hairdresser have drawn mixed reactions over their restroom choices.
The creators’ disclosures draw mixed reactions over privacy, safety and access to gender-specific public facilities.
Kenyan content creators Kelvin Kinuthia and Johny the Hairdresser have sparked a restroom debate after revealing they use women’s facilities. Their comments drew mixed reactions online over privacy, safety and access to public amenities.
The discussion began during Johny’s interview with media personality Kwambox. Kinuthia later addressed the same subject on social media while responding to followers’ questions.
Johny explains his choice of facilities
Johny, whose full name is John Mokuna Mungai, said people often mistake him for a woman. He attributed this to his feminine appearance, soft voice and dressing style.
He explained that he chooses women’s restrooms when visiting entertainment venues. To avoid misunderstandings, he also routinely tells security personnel about his identity.
Kinuthia subsequently confirmed that he uses women’s facilities too. His disclosure added momentum to the discussion about which restrooms feminine-presenting men should use.
Restroom debate draws privacy and safety concerns
Critics raised concerns about privacy and security in spaces reserved for women. Some noted that women also use these facilities to change clothes and care for young children.
However, supporters argued that feminine-presenting men could face harassment or assault in men’s restrooms. They highlighted the difficulties such individuals may encounter when deciding which facilities to enter.
Others called for more inclusive public infrastructure, including additional facilities for people whose gender expression falls outside conventional expectations. These calls focused on expanding available options.
The discussion also raised questions about how public venues should manage access to gender-specific facilities. At its centre were conflicting expectations about where individuals should go, alongside concerns about privacy and personal safety.
Kinuthia responds to backlash
Amid the criticism, Kinuthia said he would temporarily use portable toilets while discussions continued. He also addressed the public reaction in a video shared on Instagram.
His caption accused critics of taking their response too far and referred to mob justice.
