Nairobi, Kenya – July 29, 2025: 1:00 A group of concerned Nairobi residents has filed a formal petition with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) seeking the immediate recall of Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Muthoni Passaris.
The petition, submitted by activist Shakira Wafula on Monday and acknowledged by the IEBC the same day, accuses Passaris of constitutional violations, abuse of office, neglect of duty, and breach of public trust.
“Hon. Passaris has demonstrated conduct unbecoming of a State Officer, undermined constitutional principles, disrespected the electorate, and failed to perform her representative and oversight functions with integrity, impartiality, and accountability,” reads a section of the petition seen by Sauce.co.ke.
Legal Basis for the Petition
The petitioners ground the move in Article 104 of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 45 of the Elections Act. These legal frameworks allow voters to initiate a recall process if they believe an elected leader has failed in their constitutional duties.
The petitioners stated:
“We, the undersigned citizens and registered voters of Nairobi County, submit this petition… seeking the immediate recall of Hon. Esther Muthoni Passaris.”
How the MP Recall Process Works in Kenya
The IEBC plays a critical role in managing the recall process of Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of County Assembly (MCAs). Here’s a simplified breakdown of the procedure:
- Filing of Petition – A written petition is submitted to the IEBC by registered voters.
- Collection of Signatures – At least one-third of registered voters in the affected constituency must support the petition. The signatories must come from various wards within the constituency.
- Verification – The IEBC has 30 days to verify the list of names and signatures.
- Notice to Speaker – Within 15 days after verification, the IEBC notifies the Speaker of the relevant House.
- Recall Election – Within 90 days of notifying the Speaker, the IEBC must conduct a recall election where voters are asked: “Do you wish to recall your MP or MCA?” If the majority vote yes, the seat becomes officially vacant.
- By-Election – If the recall succeeds, a by-election is conducted. Interestingly, the recalled MP may contest again.
Public Reactions & Online Momentum
Following the announcement of the petition, Kenyans online intensified calls to recall underperforming legislators. Many encouraged fellow Nairobians to sign the petition. Social media users revived debates that began during the June 2024 Gen Z-led protests. The protests generated demands for greater accountability from elected officials gained momentum.
Catch up on the Gen Z movement and its political impact
Other MPs Facing Recall Petitions
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon recently revealed that the Commission has received at least four petitions to recall sitting MPs. Speaking in Mombasa County on Friday, July 18, Ethekon stated that they would review all petitions on merit.
Meanwhile, North Imenti MP Rahim Dawood is also facing a recall bid by residents who cite poor performance and loss of public confidence. Dawood is currently serving his third consecutive term.
Related: Voters in Meru County seek to recall MP Rahim Dawood – Source: Nation Africa
What’s Next for Esther Passaris?
If the IEBC confirms that the petition meets legal thresholds, the next step will be signature collection and verification. Esther Passaris, who the voters elected on an ODM ticket, has yet to issue a public response to the petition.
