Nairobi County Women Representative Esther Passaris has responded to criticism regarding the branding of a mkokoteni (pulling cart) distributed by her foundation- The Passaris Foundation.
The controversy was sparked by a tweet from an X user identified as Suddy Soud, who shared a photo of a man pulling a mkokoteni bearing Passaris’ name and questioned the necessity of such a branding.
“Mama County what’s this Jamani? Was your name necessary mamaa?” posed SuddySoud.
In her statement responding to the user’s inquiry, Passaris clarified that the branding was necessary since it was her foundation that had purchased the mkokoteni for the beneficiary.
She explained that the branding helps raise awareness among users seeking support to replace old or broken mkokoteni to sustain their families.
Passaris Clarifies on the Branding of the Mkokoteni
“Yes. It’s #passarisfoundation that purchased the Mkokoteni for the beneficiary. The branding has been seen by many users who continue to seek support to replace the broken or old or get new Mkokoteni’s to provide for their families.” she said.
“I do not have a problem associating my name with a mkokoteni,” she added.
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Also, Passaris highlighted that through her foundation she helps all manner of Kenyans without judgement noting that the initiative had enabled a fellow Kenyan to achieve self-employment, pay rent, and provide food for his family.
“I help all manner of Kenyans without judgement. This Mkokoteni helped a fellow Kenyan be self-employed; pay his rent; put food on the table etc.”
Passaris insisted that she was genuine in her efforts to uplift local communities stating, “I am not pretentious. I am authentic.”
Kenyans Criticize Passaris for Her Response
However, her explanation rubbed Kenyans on Twitter (KOT) the wrong way leading to widespread criticism over her response.
Chosen Konrad questioned why Passaris would run a parallel program to government initiatives, suggesting she should focus on creating policies in parliament that generate opportunities.
“Why run a parallel program with the government and you are a state officer. Why not creative policies in parliament that create opportunities and you wouldn’t need a foundation to impact society!” he said.
Another user, Busir Sir accused her of using taxpayer money to fund her foundation stating “Passaris foundation but you used taxpayers’ money in the name of NGC-NGAAF.”
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Eng Mitchael pointed out that the reliance on mkokoteni for water delivery highlights a failure in government services, asserting that access to water, electricity, education, and healthcare should be the government’s responsibility.
“I’m not against your efforts to assist Kenyans but the truth be told carts supplying homes water is a government failure. We should have piped water at home in slums. Access to water, electricity, education and medical care is a government responsibility.”
Kiilu C added that Passaris appears to be operating her foundation with public funds and called for her recall.
“So, you are running a foundation with our taxes? Patriots this one is ripe for a recall,” he said.
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