Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has finally spoken after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed receiving an official petition seeking her removal from office.
In a detailed statement shared on Tuesday, July 29, Passaris responded boldly, challenging those behind the move to show their leadership capabilities instead of attempting to tear down her political legacy.
She firmly stated that she will not be distracted by political battles or drawn into confrontations that might interfere with her commitment to serve Nairobi residents. Instead, she intends to stay focused on her duties and deliver on the promises she made to her constituents.
The push to recall her is being led by activist Shakira Wafula and a section of Nairobi residents who submitted the petition to the IEBC, which officially acknowledged its receipt.
The petitioners accused Passaris of several failures, including violating the Constitution, abusing her office, neglecting her responsibilities, and betraying public trust.
“We, the citizens and registered voters of Nairobi County, have submitted this petition under Article 104 of the Constitution and Section 45 of the Elections Act to recall Hon. Esther Muthoni Passaris, Nairobi Woman Representative,” read a part of the petition.
It further alleged that Passaris had conducted herself in a manner unbecoming of a state officer, failed to uphold constitutional values, disrespected the electorate, and did not fulfill her oversight and representative roles with honesty, fairness, or accountability.
In her defense, Passaris pointed to the Public Order (Amendment) Bill, which she recently sponsored. This bill has drawn sharp criticism and is seen as the trigger for the recall petition. She clarified that the bill was created with the country’s safety and public order in mind, especially in light of recent events.
“Leadership is about building a better tomorrow, not breaking others down. My Public Order Bill aims to protect lives, maintain order, and ensure our freedoms don’t spiral into chaos,” she explained.
Her bill came under heavy fire just after the country held mass protests on June 25, 2024, in memory of Gen Z youths who were killed during demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill.
Many Kenyans viewed the bill as an attack on the right to peacefully assemble and express dissent.
Amid rising public pressure and backlash, Passaris decided to pause the pre-publication of the bill. She said her decision was influenced by introspection following an appeal by religious leaders, who urged her to reconsider the legislation.
Critics claimed she was advancing the interests of powerful figures in government—including President William Ruto—who allegedly wanted to suppress public protests. Passaris, however, dismissed these claims, affirming her unwavering support for President Ruto and applauding his visionary leadership.
Despite her stance, Passaris remains in a vulnerable position. If the IEBC confirms that the petition meets the legal requirements, the next step will be for residents of Nairobi to begin gathering signatures in support of the recall.
At least one-third of Nairobi’s registered voters must sign the petition for it to move forward.
Once the signatures are collected, the IEBC will have 30 days to verify them. After verification, it must notify the Speaker of the National Assembly—where Passaris currently serves—within 15 days. From there, a recall election must be held within 90 days.
During the recall election, voters will be asked whether or not they wish to remove their representative.
If the majority vote “Yes,” Passaris will be removed from office, and a by-election will be called. However, even if she’s recalled, Passaris is still allowed to run in the by-election and possibly regain her seat.
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