Karen Nyamu unapologetic over her conduct despite public criticism: "Mimi ni dem wa ghetto"

Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has stated that she remains unapologetic about her behaviour, despite public scrutiny.

In an interview with TNX Africa, the outspoken lawmaker admitted that adjusting to the expectations that come with her role has not been easy.

“Why should I be apologetic? One thing with me, I do not like faking, and I struggle with that. I have this position where I have to act in a certain way, and I keep forgetting. Mnisamehee,” she said.

“Unajua mi ni dem wa ghetto, niko na ughetto, so mnisamehee, mimi husahau,” she added, referring to her upbringing and informal, down-to-earth personality.

Nyamu has been a controversial figure in Kenya’s political landscape, often drawing criticism for her unconventional approach to leadership and her presence on social media.

She previously attracted backlash after a video resurfaced online showing her and Gatundu North MP Njoroge Kururia engaging in behaviour that many Kenyans deemed unbecoming of public office holders. 

In the clip, Nyamu was seen raising a middle finger while making a statement in Kikuyu that loosely translated to: “We touched the mountain, and we will come back to do it again.”

Kururia, attempting to diffuse the situation, remarked: “We have pastors in our midst, and I also am a church elder. I might be chased away.”

The incident renewed discussions about the public image of elected leaders and the standards to which they are held.

Nyamu has faced similar scrutiny in the past. 

In February 2023, she was ejected from the Senate chambers for breaching the House’s dress code by wearing a sleeveless top. 

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi ordered her to leave the chamber and return dressed in accordance with parliamentary rules.

In late 2022, she was also involved in a public altercation during a Mugithi concert in Dubai, where she clashed with popular musician Samuel Muchoki, also known as Samidoh, and his wife, Edith. 

A viral video from the event showed Nyamu attempting to sit on Samidoh’s lap, resulting in a confrontation that led the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Disciplinary Committee to summon her for bringing disrepute to the party.

Despite these controversies, Nyamu has maintained a steady presence in Kenyan politics for over a decade. 

She first entered the political arena in 2013 when she ran for a seat as a Member of the County Assembly. 

Though unsuccessful, she went on to contest the Nairobi Woman Representative position in 2017 under the moniker “Bae wa Nairobi,” aiming to appeal to younger voters.

While she did not clinch the seat, she remained politically active and was nominated to the Senate in 2022 under the UDA Party.