A woman identified as Njira Njeri has publicly accused businessman Khalif Kairo of orchestrating online harassment against her, sharing her experience at a time when the entrepreneur is facing public scrutiny following the auctioning of his property over alleged unpaid debts.
In a detailed social media post, Njeri claimed she became a target after expressing dissenting views during politically charged discussions.
She linked the incident to a period following diaspora-led protests against the Finance Bill, where she had actively participated alongside other Kenyans abroad.
According to her account, the situation escalated when Kairo allegedly singled her out on social media.
She stated that he took a personal photo from her Instagram account and reposted it on his platform, inviting criticism over her appearance, particularly her makeup.
Njeri described the experience as overwhelming, noting that being targeted by a figure with a significant online following exposed her to potential mass trolling.
She pointed out that women who engage in public discourse, especially on political issues, often face personal attacks rather than substantive engagement.
However, she acknowledged that the response from Kenyans online was unexpectedly supportive.
Instead of amplifying the alleged ridicule, many users defended her, with some highlighting her contributions to community initiatives. She specifically mentioned Benji Ndolo as one of those who countered the criticism with positive remarks.
The incident, she said, reflects broader challenges faced by women in digital spaces, where appearance and personal lives are frequently weaponised to silence or intimidate.
Njeri added that navigating such environments requires resilience, particularly when public figures mobilise their followers.
Her remarks come as Kairo faces financial and legal pressure, with reports indicating that some of his assets have been auctioned to recover outstanding debts.
The controversy surrounding his business dealings has drawn mixed reactions, with some expressing sympathy while others cite previous grievances.
Njeri concluded her statement by urging individuals to be mindful of their actions online and the company they keep, suggesting that personal conduct, both offline and online, carries lasting consequences.