Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has dismissed viral claims circulating online that she is pregnant at the age of 61, describing the allegation as a manipulated attempt to ridicule her and distract from national issues.
In a statement shared on social media on Saturday, Passaris said the rumours emerged while she was attending a joint Parliamentary Group meeting between Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
According to the legislator, the meeting was focused on reviewing the government’s 10-Point Agenda for Kenya’s development when the edited image began circulating online.
“While we were discussing serious matters of national importance, somewhere online a manipulated photo was circulating announcing that I am ‘pregnant’ and fully loaded with ‘Brookside milk,’” she said.
Passaris strongly denied the claims, stating that she had already experienced her motherhood journey earlier in life and is now embracing a different stage.
“I have lived my season of motherhood. I carried my children and welcomed two beautiful babies into the world. I also endured the pain of miscarriage. Those were real moments of love, sacrifice, and life,” she wrote.
The Nairobi Woman Representative said she is currently enjoying life as a grandmother and looking forward to spending more time with her family.
“Today I celebrate another blessing. I am a proud grandmother with one beautiful grandchild and, God willing, I look forward to more,” she said.
Passaris also used the moment to address what she termed as growing online harassment and body-shaming directed at women, particularly older women.
She said menopause should not be used as a tool for ridicule, adding that it is a natural stage in a woman’s life that deserves respect.
“Menopause is not something to ridicule; it is part of a woman’s journey. I embrace it fully. No labour pains, no C-sections, just strength, wisdom, and gratitude,” she stated.
The legislator further urged social media users who manipulate images for attention to reflect on the impact of their actions.
“To the keyboard warriors who edit photos and body-shame women for likes and clicks, reflect on what kind of world you are creating. If you must speak, speak truth,” she said.
Passaris emphasized that despite the online controversy, her focus remains on leadership and public service.
“I am focused on service, dialogue, and leadership for Nairobi and for Kenya,” she added, noting that she intends to continue living life confidently and “aging gracefully.”