- Newsmax host Rob Finnerty faced backlash from Kenyans after comparing the state of New York City under new mayor Zohran Mamdani to Nairobi
- Finnerty initially apologised on X, but Kenyans rejected it and demanded he issue the apology on air, the same platform where he made the remarks
- The host went on air on Wednesday, October 14, to deliver a full on-camera apology, acknowledging his comments were wrong and that Nairobi is actually thriving
Rob Finnerty, a host on American cable network Newsmax, has apologised to Kenyans on air after comparing the state of New York City to Nairobi, a remark that triggered a wave of anger among Kenyans online.
Finnerty made the apology during his programme on Wednesday, October 14, after Kenyans on X rejected his earlier written apology and demanded that he retract his words on the same platform where he had made them.
“While discussing my concerns about New York City turning into a third world city under the new mayor, I compared what New York City has become to the city of Nairobi, which was just wrong.”
Finnerty had come under fire after likening what he described as the deplorable state of New York City under new mayor Zohran Mamdani to the Kenyan capital.
He suggested the city had slipped in standards since Mamdani took office and was becoming like Nairobi, implying that it is below par.
His remarks did not sit well with Kenyans on X, who launched a fierce onslaught against him.
“It was a stupid comparison to make, frankly, because unlike so many other cities all over the world, Nairobi is actually thriving.”
The broadcaster went on to describe Nairobi as a centre for commerce, technology, education and tourism, adding that, from everything he hears, it is a wonderful place.
He also noted that Kenya is a largely Christian nation and acknowledged that his comments had offended many good people, both in the country and around the world.
He admitted that he had a responsibility as a broadcaster and journalist to speak thoughtfully and respectfully, and conceded that he had failed in that duty.
Under mounting pressure, Finnerty first took to X to make amends.
“I want to offer an apology to the people of Nairobi, Kenya. The passion you have your city and homeland is amazing… We all make mistakes. I misspoke, and I am sorry to anyone I have offended.”
The written apology was not well received. Kenyans demanded that he make it on air, in the same way he had demeaned Nairobi.
Finnerty obliged, using his programme to address Kenyans directly. He said he had no problem admitting when he had made a mistake, adding that most journalists would not do so, but that this was not who he was.
He ended by expressing hope that Kenyans would forgive him, even if they did not like him.
“No community deserves to be unfairly characterized or insulted. I would be upset too, and I’m sorry.”
Source: TUKO.co.ke
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