Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has aired her frustrations on social media over reactions to the US presidential election results, engaging in a spirited exchange that has drawn widespread attention.
Passaris swiftly responded after a parody account impersonating journalist Larry Madowo posted a remark targeting US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman for not yet congratulating Donald Trump on his election victory.
“Meg Whitman has not congratulated Trump so far,” the tweet from @LarryMadowa humorously observed, sparking an impassioned reply from Passaris.
Passaris, who has been a vocal supporter of Kamala Harris, criticized the account’s premature take, emphasizing that the US election had not been formally concluded.
She also expressed her concerns over the influence of parody and commentary accounts, suggesting that freedom of speech should have limits.
Passaris outburst
“Seriously. You should know better than to expect @USAmbKenya to react on media reports. The election has not been decisively concluded. Has it? Who has congratulated him? You just trying to stir something that needs no stirring using a commentary account riding on a journalist who knows better. Freedom of speech should have limits. Get my drift?” Passaris ranted.
Veteran journalist Ferdinand Omondi chimed in, pointing out that Passaris was engaging with a parody account, a reminder that didn’t go unnoticed by her followers and other online observers.
As of this report, Donald Trump has secured 277 electoral college votes against Harris’ 224.
A candidate needs 270 electoral college votes to be US president.
World leaders’ reactions
Several heads of state and government have already congratulated Trump on his victory.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that he looks forward to working with Trump in the coming years.
“As the closest of allies, we stand shoulder to shoulder in defence of our shared values of freedom, democracy and enterprise.
“From growth and security to innovation and tech, I know that the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic for years to come,” Starmer said.
“Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump. Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity,” French President Emmanuel Macron said.
Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky said he looks forward to an era of strong US under Trump’s leadership.
“I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the peace through strength approach in global affairs. This is exactly the principle that can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer. I am hopeful that we will put it into action together,” he said.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he looks forward to building on previous successes to strengthen the India-US partnership further.
“Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory. As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership. Together, let’s work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity.”
“Congratulations to President Donald Trump @realDonaldTrump on your election victory and comeback. I look forward to working together to further strengthen the relationship between our two countries during your term,” Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said.
Kenya’s former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also joined world leaders in congratulating Trump on his election victory.
“Congratulations President Donald Trump, for one of the greatest political come-backs of our generation. Your victory is clear proof that resilience and a never-say-die attitude will always TRUMP obstacles on the path to your destiny. God Bless You. God Bless America,” Gachagua stated.
