US broadcaster issues fresh on-air apology to Kenyans after Nairobi comments backlash

The controversy began during an October 9 segment discussing immigration and the condition of major American urban centers. 

During the broadcast, Finnerty remarked that migration into sanctuary cities was causing them to deteriorate, stating that they were starting to look "more like Nairobi than New York City".

He also accused the US media of failing to adequately report the changes he was describing, drawing comparisons with developments in the United Kingdom (UK) and France.

The segment featured interviews with immigrants who identified themselves as coming from Guatemala, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mexico and Guinea.

None of those featured in the supplied clip identified themselves as being from Kenya or Nairobi, a point that became central to the backlash. 

Finnerty's comments triggered an immediate and intense online pushback from Kenyans, who viciously slammed the broadcaster and flooded social media with imagery of Nairobi's modern skyline, infrastructure, and vibrant urban economy. 

Faced with a massive digital uproar, Finnerty initially took to  X to express regret. 

He wrote: "I want to offer an apology to the people of Nairobi, Kenya. The passion you have for your city and homeland is amazing… We all make mistakes. I misspoke, and I am sorry to anyone I have offended."

However, the initial social media statement failed to entirely quell the criticism, with many online users demanding an apology delivered with the same public visibility as the original insult.

Addressing viewers directly on television, Finnerty offered an unreserved retraction, admitting that his comparison was entirely unwarranted and rooted in misinformation. 

"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," he said. 

While acknowledging Kenya's cultural standing and economic vitality, Finnerty also admitted that his comments did, in fact, offend Kenyans, touting Nairobi's famed excellence in various sectors. 

"Nairobi which is in Kenya is a largely Christian nation, and I know my comments offended a lot of really good people who live there and all over the world, and for that, I am truly sorry. It was a stupid comparison to make, frankly, because unlike so many other cities all over the world, Nairobi is actually thriving. It's become a center for commerce, tech, education, tourism, and from everything that I hear, it is a wonderful place," he said. 

Finnerty also acknowledged that he had failed in his responsibility as a journalist to communicate thoughtfully and respectfully, expressing hope that Kenyans would accept his apology.

He said he was willing to admit when he was wrong, adding that no community deserved to be unfairly portrayed or insulted while also asking Kenyans to forgive him, even those who might not like him. 

"That does not change what happened, and I know I've got the responsibility as a broadcaster, as a journalist, to speak thoughtfully and respectfully, and I failed here, and I will admit that. So I hope the people of Kenya accept this apology," he said. 

"I have no problem admitting when I've made a mistake or when I get something wrong. Most journalists won't do that... no community deserves to be unfairly characterized or insulted, I would be upset too, and I'm sorry. And even though you might not like me, I truly do hope that you forgive me."

The incident has renewed debate about how international media outlets portray African cities, with critics challenging comparisons they consider dismissive or inaccurate representations of Nairobi and Kenya.