This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
On November 3, 2019, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga met with Kamba governors Alfred Mutua, Charity Ngilu, and Kivutha Kibwana in a bid to secure their support in the Kibra by-election.
During the meeting, Raila stated that he was assured of the community's support in the Kibra election, a claim that would later backfire on him.
Speaking in Kiswahili, Raila said, 'Wakamba ni waaminifu kama akina mama. Wakisema wanakupatia wanakupatia' (the Kambas are loyal and are like women when they say they will support you, they will keep their word).
However, Raila's comments were met with outrage, with many faulting his choice of words in his remarks.
Some Kamba leaders condemned Raila's comments, with Mavoko MP Patrick Makau expressing his disappointment, saying, 'I'm shocked by Raila's insult to the Akamba community and all women.'
Netizens also took to social media to express their outrage, with some terming Raila's comment as insults to Kamba women and hate speech.