Nairobi Governor Sonko Refuses to Apologize for Insulting Woman Rep. Esther Passaris

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has shrugged off calls to apologize to Woman Representative Esther Passaris for insulting her during Madaraka Day celebrations on Saturday.

Speaking on Monday, Governor Sonko insisted he will not apologize to Ms. Passaris and accused her of attempting to create enmity between him and women.

“Anataka kunipiganisha na wamama na mimi nawapenda sana wamama,” said Sonko.

“Mama mmoja asifanye diversionary tactics za kunikosanisha na wamama. Mimi niko na bibi na watoto wasichana.”

Sonko also stated that Passaris should be the first to apologize since she was the one who started a fight with him. 

“Akianza ku apoligise, hata mimi nta apologize,” he said.

In her speech during the ceremony held at Pumwani Secondary School, Passaris accused Sonko of refusing to work with her, saying that he had been ignoring her numerous phone calls.

Passaris further questioned the source of money Sonko dishes to members of the public.

Passaris's speech angered Sonko, who did not hesitate to hit back at her when rose to the podium.

“Unanipigia simu mimi si bwana yako,” Sonko said while giving his speech.

"Let us respect one another. Even President Uhuru Kenyatta does not respond to my calls every time," Sonko added.

As Sonko continued to throw words at her, Passaris decide to walk off amidst jeerers and heckling from Sonko supporters.

"My money; the one I have from my own pocket, I will share with the Wanjikus. The little you have, take it to the children's home," Sonko noted.

Some leaders and social media users criticized Sonko over his remarks berating Passaris.

The Federation Of Women Lawyers (FIDA) called for the arrest of Sonko for engaging in what they called hate speech and violation of Article 6 of the Constitution.