Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani is demanding a formal apology from ODM leader Raila Odinga for his reported comments insinuating the existence of a romantic relationship between the county boss and Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.

In a statement, the County boss termed Raila's comment “demeaning and disrespectful” noting that should the opposition leader fail to comply within seven days, she will file a lawsuit against him.

She said that the remarks were gender-biased and in bad faith.

“Sexual and Gender-based violence 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 of trade in bridging the third-gender rule gap in the country,” part of the statement by Kwale County Government Director of Communications and Spokesperson Nicky Gitonga read.

Adding;

“Governor Achani, a married woman and devoted Muslim, deserves respect for her leadership role in Kwale. The people of Kwale County demand a formal apology within the next 7 days. Failure to comply will result in legal action against ODM as a party and Raila Odinga as an individual.”

According to Achani, the Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya coalition leader made the demeaning comment during his Kwale tour to launch the ODM party members’ recruitment drive on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

At the time, Kwale Senator Issa Juma Boy and Women Representative Fatuma Masito shifted to the opposition after apologising to Raila.

During the event, Raila linked Governor Achani, who is allied to the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance with CS Mvurya terming her "...bibi wa Mvurya".