Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris has responded after drawing criticism for a photo she shared with Mumias East MP Peter Salasya during the five-day parliamentary retreat at a luxury resort in Naivasha this week.
The initial post, which appeared to show the two MPs together in a celebratory moment at the retreat, sparked sharp online criticism. Many Kenyans questioned the appropriateness of the image and speculated about the nature of their interaction.
In a statement on Wednesday, January 28, Passaris clarified that the photo was AI-generated, not an actual capture of the MPs together. She shared two additional images to illustrate the difference.
“Today is Data Protection Day. This image shows how easily reality can be manipulated. One version is AI-generated with Peter Salasya. One is real. In today’s digital age, it’s becoming harder to tell the difference, which is why privacy, ethical data use, and responsible sharing matter more than ever,” Passaris wrote.
She further highlighted that issues like data protection, digital ethics, and strong cyber laws, including Kenya’s cybercrime and data protection frameworks, are not just technical matters but safeguards that protect real people from digital harm. Passaris urged Kenyans to always verify information online, cautioning that “in 2026, seeing is no longer believing.”
Despite her explanation, the clarification did little to calm public concern. Many Kenyans remained skeptical and expressed disappointment, interpreting the image as unethical conduct between the two lawmakers.
Here are some reactions:
We aren’t as stupid as you think bimbo! pic.twitter.com/vjGuzkzFTi
— MedhaneMartins
(@MedhaneMartins) January 28, 2026
Why are you explaining yourself that much??
— Omwanda
stop lies, we know alot happen behind the scene…kubali ushikwe
— The major (@Stanley45438379) January 28, 2026
The fake one looks more original. Whatever the AI generator had in mind he/she did their homework very well and has communicated clearly. We are not supporting disinformation, misinformation and deepfakes though.
— Murithi Magiri (@mmagiri) January 28, 2026
And you posted the one you are calling fake earlier. Sisi si wajinga
— Michael Mulongo Sikuku Namunyu (@SikukuNamunyu) January 28, 2026
Hehehe https://t.co/Q5bW3pLGGo
— Dan (@notyet_free) January 28, 2026
This can never be Al
— Gimaino (@gimaino66188) January 28, 2026
It’s still doesn’t remove the visibly cozy contact between you and Salasya. Those are two different pics taken within a few minutes.
— 1term (@parrot_cool) January 28, 2026
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