An AI-generated picture of Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris / HANDOUT
Passaris has come under fire on social media for defending the police, even as allegations of brutality and excessive force dominate headlines.
While many Kenyans express anger over how recent protests have been handled, Passaris has urged the public not to paint all officers with the same brush.
“The Kenya Police are not aliens,” she said.
“They are our fathers, our mothers, our sons, our sisters, our neighbours.”
Her comments come in the wake of nationwide outrage over police conduct during recent protests.
Officers have been accused of using tear gas and force to disperse peaceful demonstrators.
Among the most disturbing incidents is the shooting of 22-year-old face mask vendor Boniface Kariuki — also known as Eli Joshua — during the June 17 protests.
Kariuki was reportedly shot at close range by police officers while selling surgical face masks. Two officers, Klinzy Masinde Barasa and Duncan Kiprono, have since been interdicted and are being held at the Capitol Hill Police Station as investigations continue.
Despite the backlash, Passaris has not walked back her remarks.
In fact, she doubled down after an AI-generated image of her in a police uniform went viral on X (formerly Twitter), with critics mockingly calling her a “police spokesperson.”
But Passaris took the moment in stride.
“Kenyans have dressed me in uniform, and with humility, I wear this as a symbol of dignity, duty, and determination to see our country heal,” she said.
“I wear it with pride and purpose, not power. Not to command fear, but to fight for dignity.”
While firm in her support for the institution, Passaris acknowledged that not all is well within the service.
“I attest we urgently need police reforms,” she said, adding that rogue officers must be held accountable.
“Let’s fix the system without condemning those who still serve us with integrity.”
She also praised officers who continue to serve with honour, courage, and commitment, even amid difficult circumstances.
Her comments have sparked mixed reactions, with some praising her call for reform while others question her continued support for the police in the face of public anger and grief.
As investigations into the June 17 shooting continue, Passaris maintains that real change requires both accountability and recognition of those who uphold their duty responsibly.
