Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has given Raila Odinga seven days to withdraw controversial remarks he reportedly made against her in Kwale.
Raila on January 24, 2024, while holding an Orange Democratic Delegates (ODM) delegates meeting in Kwale alleged that the governor, Fatuma Achani had a “dalliance” with a male Cabinet Secretary.
“The rumours I am hearing, you know I have two ears. So this side I am hearing that I have gone too much on mama’s side, and you know she is the wife of *** [sic]," Raila claimed.
Governor Achani, who was not present at the Baraza Park in Matuga forum claimed that she was offended by Raila's comments.
The UDA governor thus gave Raila seven days starting January 26, to withdraw and apologise over these remarks.
In a follow-up statement issued by Nicky Gitonga, her communications director and spokesperson, Achani added that Raila's statements were regrettable.
"Sexual and Gender-based violence (GBV) is one of the most obstinate violations of human rights across the globe. These demeaning and uncalled-for remarks are not only disrespectful to Governor Achani but also undermine the progress made in bridging the third-gender rule gap in the country.
"Governor Achani, a married woman and devoted Muslim, deserves respect for her leadership role in Kwale County. The statement by Raila Odinga, specifically the phrase "huyo ni bibi ya ***," is deemed defamatory," Gitonga condemned Odinga.
He also warned that the county would take legal action against ODM as a party and Raila Odinga as an individual if the latter assumed their demands.
"This incident highlights the county government's unwavering commitment to combating SGBV and upholding the dignity of women in Kenya. We stand firm in our dedication to the principles of the third gender rule and the just passed Bill on SGBV in Kwale County... and call for a respectful and inclusive discourse in our political landscape," the statement read in part.
Raila is on a week-long coastal tour to popularise ODM's mass recruitment drive. On Friday, he toured Mombasa and Taita Taveta a day after visiting Lamu and Tana River counties.
On Tuesday, he welcomed back other politicians who had abandoned his party to join the Kenya Kwanza bandwagon.
