ESTHER PASSARIS AND JOURNALIST CIRU MURIUKI CLASH IN HEATED SOCIAL MEDIA EXCHANGE

A fiery online debate erupted between Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris and journalist Ciru Muriuki on X (formerly Twitter). 

The exchange began when Passaris posted about the fatal shooting of a Kenyan mask vendor, condemning police violence. “Another Kenyan, a mask vendor shot in cold blood. This is heartbreaking and unacceptable. What we’re witnessing is not just isolated brutality; it is the result of systemic failure: poor recruitment standards, inadequate training, mental burnout, and a culture of impunity.”

Adding, “It is time we review the entry criteria, invest in psychosocial support for our officers, implement mandatory body cameras, and build a police service grounded in professionalism, dignity, and accountability. I mourn with the family of the vendor, just as I mourn for Albert Ojwang and so many others. But mourning is not enough. Prayers are not enough. It’s time to act. We must adequately expand and fund the police service training academy.”

Journalist Ciru fired back, “Girl shut up. You’re not with us. Leave us alone.” Passaris countered by saying Ciru is betraying women, “When women silence other women with ‘girl shut up,’ we betray the sisterhood we claim to stand for… I was elected to serve all, including those who disagree with me. I will never tell another woman to be quiet, especially when speaking up for justice.”

Muriuki doubled down, replying, “I don’t think you understood me the first time. Girl shut up. Leave us alone. OMG.” The women rep concluded by recommending Ciru to go for counselling, “When someone tells you three times to shut up for doing your job, just know you’ve already said something worth hearing. I lead. I serve. I speak. That won’t change. I recommend counselling to manage your anger. #PeaceAndLove God Bless.”