Controversial Kenyan senator Karen Nyamu faced significant backlash on social media for her controversial stance on the proposed levies on pads in the Finance Bill of 2024, which were subsequently removed.
Karen Nyamu supported the taxation of imported pads, arguing that this measure would encourage local manufacturers of sanitary towels and diapers.
The nominated Senator clarified her stance after being questioned by a netizen named Lisper Kimathi. Kimathi criticized Karen Nyamu for supporting the proposed taxation of pads, particularly noting her position as a woman in leadership who should understand the challenges women face.
"Pads and diaper's prices have increased and set to go higher and women leaders like you are not talking 😢😢😢, it's a shame to have brainless leaders. Sanitary towels and diapers prices should go down" Lisper said.
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Karen Nyamu however responded by saying:
"Only imported brands attract that tax. Encouraging local manufacturing of sanitary towels and diapers".
Karen Nyamu further stated that she typically uses tampons instead of pads, despite her support for imposing additional levies on pads.
This sparked outrage as it gave the impression that she disregarded the concerns of pad users.
Recently, the senator engaged with various netizens and faced significant trolling due to her controversial remarks.
Despite the backlash, Karen Nyamu later took to her Instagram stories and reaffirmed that she was unapologetic about her stance.
The nominated Senator was actually pleased that she trended for something unrelated to her personal relationships, which is usually the cause of her previous trends.
"What makes me very happy is lately I'm trending for my goofs n not for who I'm f*^%!
A win is a win guys 😅" Karen Nyamu wrote on her Instagram stories.