Passaris reacts after Citizen TV labelled her a disaster celebrity

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris on Monday hit out at Citizen TV after she was labelled a ‘disaster celebrity.’

Through a tweet, the media house criticized politicians for showing up and starting blame games after disasters yet they do little for people who elected them.

Passaris was among a number of politicians who showed at Precious Talent School after the collapse of a building.

“DISASTER CELEBRITIES; How politicians, public figures cash in on disasters. Kiarie: This area has no public schools due to land grabbing. Omanga: We blame the gov’t for not taking care of schools. Passaris: During campaigns we promised to put up a school here #MondayReport,” read a tweet by Citizen TV.

Passaris swiftly responded by saying that she organized for water, soft drinks, bread and milk to be given to those who were at the scene of the disaster.

“Really? I was there, assessed the situation, organised for water, soft drinks, bread and milk.

“Appreciated the boda boda and youth of Ng'ando for their heroic efforts before the disasters teams arrived. I then went about my scheduled duties ending at KNH at 7.00 pm,” she said.

One Twitter user, however, put her to task by asking why leaders only come up with suggestions after accidents have happened.

“It is just ironical how you leaders come up with ideas after such horrific situations. Why wait till we shed tears?”

The legislator responded by saying she is always willing to help but at times she lacks resources to cater for the never ending needs.

“Such is life. Calamities are change agents in human and humane beings. Ask yourself. Why didn’t I cry before?

“Because it wasn’t in your face. I cry every night with or without tears because of the never-ending needs that I cannot help no matter my desire in the short run,” said the lawmaker.

Adding that she was on sick leave but had to show up immediately she learnt of the disaster.