On March 23, 2025, Kenyan businessman Khalif Kairo made headlines with a candid and unfiltered podcast interview that has ignited discussions across business and social media circles. Addressing claims made by his former business partner, Clement Kinuthia, Kairo’s latest public appearance has become a defining moment in his ongoing battle to reshape his narrative.
A Business Feud in the Public Eye
Khalif Kairo, the CEO of Kai and Karo Motors and Jetman Global, has been a controversial yet influential figure in Kenya’s entrepreneurial space. Rising from humble beginnings in Kawangware, Nairobi, he built a reputation as a savvy car dealer and social media personality, known for his luxurious lifestyle and bold business moves. However, his journey has been fraught with challenges, including a contentious business fallout and legal troubles.
His exit from Imports by Kairo in 2022, a company he co-founded, led to an ongoing dispute with Clement Kinuthia, an investor and director involved in the business. Kinuthia allegedly orchestrated Kairo’s removal, leading to a highly publicized rift. The situation escalated further with allegations of fraud surfacing against Kairo in early 2025. These controversies have kept him in the public eye, with supporters and critics closely following every development.
Kairo’s latest interview serves as a direct response to Kinuthia’s previous statements, where he accused Kairo of mismanagement and personal misconduct. One of the most sensational claims was that Kairo had sent messages to Kinuthia’s wife regarding infidelity, a revelation that shifted public sentiment in Kinuthia’s favor. Kairo, however, refuses to let this be the final word.
The Explosive Interview
During the interview, Kairo systematically counters the accusations against him. He begins by recounting the origins of Imports by Kairo, emphasizing that he established the business in 2017 before bringing in Kinuthia and other investors in 2020. According to Kairo, the partnership turned sour when he was sidelined, his role reduced to being the “poster boy” despite his significant contributions to the company’s success. He asserts that Kinuthia and his allies leveraged contractual loopholes to limit his earnings and control the company’s future.
Addressing the allegations of personal misconduct, particularly the claim about messaging Kinuthia’s wife, Kairo vehemently denies any involvement. He frames the accusation as a calculated smear campaign designed to damage his reputation. “This isn’t a business dispute anymore—it’s a personal vendetta,” he states, challenging Kinuthia’s narrative and accusing him of manipulating public perception.
Beyond these disputes, Kairo touches on his recent legal troubles, including his arrest in January 2025 over undelivered car orders. Rather than admitting wrongdoing, he characterizes the situation as growing pains faced by any ambitious entrepreneur. He argues that external economic factors, rather than fraudulent intent, were responsible for the delays and reassures that all affected customers will receive their vehicles.
Looking Forward: Kairo’s Resilience and Future Plans
Despite the turmoil, Kairo remains optimistic about his future. He highlights his new ventures, including the relaunch of Kai and Karo Motors and the expansion of Jetman Global, his aviation business. Confident in his ability to rebuild, he emphasizes his track record of resilience. “I’ve built from nothing before, and I’ll do it again,” he declares, hinting at upcoming projects that promise further growth.
Kairo acknowledges the hardships he has faced—betrayals, financial difficulties, and public scrutiny—but frames them as stepping stones rather than setbacks. He argues that many successful entrepreneurs have endured similar challenges, using their struggles as fuel for future success.
Public Reactions and the Road Ahead
The interview has already sparked widespread reactions on social media. Supporters praise Kairo for his honesty and determination, viewing him as a fighter overcoming adversity. Critics, however, remain skeptical, questioning the unresolved fraud allegations and his flamboyant persona. “Kairo talks big, but where’s the proof?” one social media user commented, reflecting lingering doubts about his business practices.
The timing of the interview is strategic, aligning with his efforts to restore his image amid ongoing legal battles and Kinuthia’s resurgence in the car import business. It’s an attempt to reclaim control of the narrative, but whether it will ultimately shift public perception remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Kairo is not backing down. As he puts it, “I’m still here, still building, still winning—watch me.”
For those interested in Kenya’s dynamic business landscape or captivated by Kairo’s tumultuous journey, this latest revelation offers a fascinating glimpse into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. More than just a rebuttal, it is a testament to the mindset of a man determined to rise, no matter the odds.
