Comedian YY has sparked debate over Kenyans’ responses to criticism of Nairobi.
The comedian questioned why Kenyans criticise their capital but object when foreigners make similar remarks.
Comedian and digital creator YY has drawn online backlash after questioning Kenyans’ reactions to Nairobi criticism. He asked why residents frequently criticise the capital but object when foreigners make similar comments.
His remarks followed controversy over American journalist Rob Finnerty’s comparison of New York City with Nairobi. Finnerty made the comments during a discussion about immigration and changes in American cities.
YY questions reactions to Nairobi criticism
In a video circulating online, YY said Finnerty’s comments had helped him appreciate Nairobi’s beauty. He also argued that Kenyans themselves often compare their capital with major international cities.
The comedian said Kenyans had placed Nairobi on the same level as New York City. He then questioned why a foreigner’s comparison would provoke anger when locals had drawn similar parallels.
However, several social media users rejected his argument, drawing a distinction between domestic criticism and outsiders’ comments. Their responses focused on patriotism and whether Finnerty had any reason to bring Nairobi into the discussion.
Online users challenge comedian’s position
One user, @Al lexis, described criticism of Nairobi as an internal family issue that outsiders should avoid. Meanwhile, @Mat Githaiga questioned YY’s understanding of patriotism.
Another user, @Queen Nanjala, challenged Finnerty’s decision to compare the two cities in the first place. That response reflected objections about the comparison itself, rather than which city had greater development.
The reactions highlighted different views about who can criticise Nairobi and in what context. While YY questioned the apparent inconsistency, his critics argued that local complaints did not justify similar remarks from foreigners.
Finnerty apologises after immigration comments
During a Newsmax broadcast, Finnerty claimed immigration was changing the character of American cities. He suggested that some were beginning to resemble Nairobi more than New York.
The remarks angered Kenyans who questioned why he had singled out their capital in an American immigration debate. Some also noted that none of the immigrants featured in the segment had identified themselves as Kenyan.
Finnerty subsequently apologised to Kenyans on October 13, saying he had misspoken and regretted offending people. He later delivered an on-air apology, but the controversy continued.
