Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris sparked widespread discussion after a video clip where she said, “Nikionyesha matiti au matako, these are my things.”
Her statement, made in a mix of Swahili and English, went viral on social media starting January 10, 2026. It translates to emphasising that her body belongs to her, and she can choose how to present it.
Passaris spoke during a public event. She pushed back against victim-blaming in cases of sexual harassment or assault. She argued that a woman’s choice of clothing never justifies wrongdoing by others.
In the event, she demonstrated her point boldly, including a moment where she spanked herself to underline control over her own body. The full message centred on “My Dress, My Choice”. She said men should respect boundaries regardless of how women dress.
The video spread fast on social media. Accounts shared short versions with the key quote. Views reached hundreds of thousands in a day. Some posts focused on the direct language.
Others highlighted the broader call against blaming victims. Passaris has supported women’s rights issues before. This time, her straightforward approach caught extra attention.
Reactions varied across Kenya. Many women praised her for speaking out. Comments online said it addressed a common problem where victims face judgement over outfits.
Rights groups often point out how such attitudes discourage reporting assaults. Supporters saw the statement as empowering. One popular reply noted it reminded people that consent and respect matter most.
Not everyone agreed. Some criticised the wording as too blunt for a leader. Others felt the demonstration went too far. Posts called it attention-seeking or unfit for her position. A few brought up past controversies around her public image. Debates touched on decency in politics versus free expression.
Passaris has represented Nairobi County in the National Assembly since 2017. She belongs to the Orange Democratic Movement. Her work includes philanthropy through Adopt-a-Light and pushes for better street lighting and child welfare. She often speaks on gender-based violence and health access. In recent years, she backed campaigns against period poverty and for safer cities.
This clip fits ongoing talks about women’s safety in Kenya. Cases of harassment make news regularly. Activists campaign for stronger laws and mindset shifts. Passaris joined similar voices before, like during protests over dress codes. Her latest comments reinforce that no excuse exists for assault—not clothes, not behaviour.
Men got mentioned too. She said they should “look, swallow saliva, and move on” if tempted. It aimed to shift responsibility to the person acting wrongly. The message echoed global slogans like “My Body, My Choice.”
By January, the topic trended in Kenyan online spaces. Hashtags mixed support and criticism. Passaris did not add more statements right away. Her past posts show consistent stances on similar issues.
For many in Nairobi and beyond, the clip started conversations at home or work. Young women shared stories of facing judgement. Older views clashed sometimes. Overall, it highlighted persistent challenges around respect and autonomy.
Passaris continues her duties in parliament. Committees and county visits keep her busy. This moment adds to her public profile as someone unafraid to tackle tough topics directly.
The debate shows no quick end. Views differ on language and approach. But the core issue—protecting women from blame in violence—remains key for many Kenyans.
