Kenyan businessman and political strategist Jimi Wanjigi recently made headlines with his impassioned remarks about Kamba women and the police’s handling of his recent troubles. Speaking at a public event, Wanjigi lauded his wife, Irene Nzisa, a native of Tala in Ukambani, for her unwavering support during a challenging period when the police were intensively searching for him. His comments have sparked significant attention and debate.
Wanjigi’s admiration for his wife was evident as he shared personal anecdotes about their ordeal. During his speech, he likened Irene’s strength to that of a tea bag, which only reveals its true potency when submerged in hot water. He recounted a harrowing experience when the police, in their quest to locate him due to his involvement in the Nane Nane protests, conducted an intense search of his home. Despite the high-pressure situation, Irene’s composure and resilience stood out.
“The police were hunting me down as if I were a terrorist,” Wanjigi reflected, adding that he saw his wife’s true strength during this period. “She never wavered, never showed fear, and never shed a tear. If you want to know who understands every corner of the house, ask the wife. She saved me.”
Wanjigi’s praise extended beyond personal anecdotes to a broader cultural endorsement. He recommended that Kenyan men consider marrying Kamba women, suggesting that they provide exceptional support and steadfastness in difficult times. “If you want a wife who will stand by you, come to Ukambani,” he advised, echoing his deep appreciation for the qualities he attributes to the women from this region.
The context of Wanjigi’s remarks was deeply intertwined with his recent legal and political struggles. He detailed a recent police raid on his Nairobi home, linking it to his political activities, particularly his involvement in the Nane Nane protests. According to Wanjigi, his brief participation in the demonstrations led to a severe police response, which included being teargassed and subsequently subjected to ongoing surveillance and searches.
“They were there for barely five minutes before being teargassed. We were chased from town, and this home has been under siege since then,” he explained. His comments reveal a broader frustration with the police’s tactics, which he characterized as excessive and intrusive. Wanjigi criticized the manner in which the police conducted their search, accusing them of misconduct and questioning the legality of their actions.
“Stop searching my house; you will never find me,” Wanjigi declared, expressing frustration over what he perceives as futile attempts to locate him. He called for the police to use formal channels, such as issuing a summons, rather than resorting to house raids. “Seven years ago, they searched this house and couldn’t find me. Even now, if you search here, you won’t find me. Please don’t waste your time. If you want me, just send a summons, and I will appear where you want. We are not fools; we were not born yesterday,” he concluded.
Wanjigi’s comments have ignited a public conversation about the intersection of personal support and political activism, highlighting both the strength of his wife and the contentious nature of his legal battles. His endorsement of Kamba women and critique of police actions offer a unique glimpse into the challenges faced by prominent figures in Kenya’s political landscape.