Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has hit back at online critics telling her to “go back to India,” firmly rejecting suggestions that she does not belong in Kenya.
Speaking in a post on TikTok on Friday, December 26, 2025, Passaris made it clear that she would not be intimidated by comments questioning her identity or place in Kenya.
“Well, I’m Greek, not Indian. The fact that my sister lives in India doesn’t make me Indian… But even if I were Indian, it would be fine. We are all from one original beginning,” she said, asserting her right to live, serve, and belong in the country she calls home.
Passaris clarified that she is Greek by heritage and Kenyan by citizenship but stressed that even if she were Indian, it should not be an issue.
Passaris explained that the attacks often resurface whenever she shares personal moments online, particularly those involving her family.
She noted that her sister, who lives in India, had travelled to Kenya to spend Christmas with their mother, marking a reunion after several years. However, she said this personal detail has been twisted by critics to fuel xenophobic remarks.
“Why do I need to always explain myself? Yeah, because, you know, next week you’re going to all go, oh, those haters online are going to start, oh, go back to India?” she asked, adding that her sister’s residence in India does not define her own identity.
She emphasised that humanity transcends borders, race, and nationality.
The legislator said the comments were not only hurtful but also distracting from what the Christmas season represents. “Such comments are irrelevant,” she noted, saying they pull attention away from gratitude, family, and compassion.
According to Passaris, Christmas should be a time to thank God for life, reflect on loved ones, and extend kindness to those less fortunate.
She also used the moment to issue a strong appeal on road safety, urging Kenyans travelling during the holidays to avoid reckless driving, overspeeding, and drunk driving. Passaris warned that many road accidents are preventable and leave families devastated.
“Be on the road and be courteous. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t overspeed. Drive carefully and arrive alive,” she said, stressing that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
She concluded her message by encouraging Kenyans to spread goodwill: offering food baskets, checking on the less fortunate, and celebrating with care and compassion.
