Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has moved to shut down growing online rumours about her political plans, firmly stating on Friday night that she has not endorsed anyone to take over her seat in 2027.
Passaris said several manipulated posters had been spreading across social media, sparking claims that she was backing a preferred successor.
The speculation comes at a time when she has faced criticism from some Kenyans who accuse her of siding with an unpopular government and allegedly neglecting Nairobi residents.
She has repeatedly found herself defending her positions online after posting remarks that many users consider controversial.
She dismissed the viral posters as fake, saying they were designed to mislead the public and force her into early succession politics.
Passaris reminded Kenyans that by the 2027 General Election, she will have completed her second and final term as Nairobi Woman Representative—a seat set aside under affirmative action for female leaders.
“Over the last 24 hours, I’ve seen several edited posters circulating online. Let me set the record straight. By 2027, God willing, I will have completed two full terms as Nairobi Woman Rep. This is an affirmative action seat, and I believe it is time for another woman to lead,” she shared on X.
“To be clear, I have not endorsed anyone for the seat. It is far too early, and I will not be drawn into political games, misinterpretations or manipulated graphics.”
While she believes another woman should step forward when her term ends, she stressed that she has not settled on any individual and that any political decisions will be guided by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
“As an ODM leader, I will respect the party’s decision when the time comes,” she added.
Passaris also used her statement to publicly back President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, praising what she described as his strong leadership, work ethic and transformational agenda for Kenya and the African continent.
“As for the presidency in 2027, my personal endorsement is for President William Ruto because I believe in his leadership, his focus, his hard work and his transformational agenda,” she said.
Despite the political chatter, Passaris said her main focus remains serving Nairobi residents and completing her mandate.
Her clarification follows online claims suggesting she had endorsed Senator Karen Nyamu as her preferred successor—claims she now firmly denies.
