Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu is back in the headlines, this time for a social media post about securing free tampons for school girls.
On June 30th, Nyamu announced on Instagram that her foundation had negotiated a deal with Kotex Kenya to provide free tampons to schools, particularly in underprivileged areas. She also mentioned plans to educate girls on tampon use.
However, the post backfired. Many Kenyans criticized Nyamu, accusing her of using menstrual health as a smokescreen for her previous support of the controversial Finance Bill. Others questioned the legitimacy of the deal.
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Who’s fooling who?
Responding to the backlash, Kotex released a statement denying any partnership with Nyamu or her foundation. They emphasized their commitment to women’s health but stressed they don’t engage in political affiliations.
“Kotex hereby confirms that no discussions or conversations have taken place with Karen Nyamu. Any assertions regarding a prospective partnership involving Kotex are entirely false. Our commitment remains steadfast in championing women’s progress for all Kenyans.
Undeterred, Nyamu accused Kotex of succumbing to online pressure and insisted discussions had taken place. She saw the controversy as an opportunity to raise awareness about tampons and potentially secure a discount deal with Kotex. Nyamu explains that Kortex made the statement due to the difference in their political affiliations
”Sometimes companies forget political figures are also people and what we do to impact the community is bigger than ourselves. As for Kotex Kenya i feel sorry for the backlash you had to endure yesterday due to my political stand at a time when political temperatures in the country are hot, forcing you to make the statement you made. our aim is not to set you up so we will let it rest there,” she wrote.
The situation remains unresolved, with Nyamu’s claims unverified and Kotex maintaining their stance.
