Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has responded to an AI-generated image showing her dressed in a police uniform, which has been widely circulated on social media, sparking both criticism and support.
The image appeared online amid growing public anger over the conduct of police during recent anti-government protests. Some critics mockingly referred to Passaris as a police spokesperson due to her recent remarks defending law enforcement officers.
In a post on Thursday, 19th June 2025, through her X account, Passaris acknowledged the image and used it as a symbol of her values.
“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.”
Support for police
Despite national outrage over police brutality, particularly after the killing of teacher Albert Ojwang and the recent shooting of 22-year-old face mask vendor Boniface Kariuki on June 17, Passaris urged the public not to generalize all officers as violent.
“The Kenya Police are not aliens. They are our fathers, our mothers, our sons, our sisters, our neighbours,” she stated.
Push for police reforms
Passaris also emphasized the need for systemic reform, calling out rogue officers while praising those who continue to serve with integrity.
“I attest we urgently need police reforms. Rogue officers must be held accountable. Let’s fix the system without condemning those who still serve us with integrity.”
She highlighted the courage of officers who uphold the law even under difficult circumstances, noting that real change requires both accountability and recognition of service.
