Former Nyeri Town MP Esther Murugi on Thursday, September 19, shut down an MP over a question on her ability to perform government duties at her age.
Appearing for vetting after being nominated as a member of National Lands Commission (NLC) by President Uhuru Kenyatta, Murugi, 65, answered questions by legislators on her suitability to serve in the position.
During the session, Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo wondered if the former legislator had any energy left to run the commission, saying she was almost clocking 70 years.
In response, Murugi stated that she was of good health and her age would not be a deterrent to her performing her duties.
She added that she led an active life and was physically fit to undertake the duties in question.
"I am not going to a football field or dancing competition. I go to the gym every morning and I can say am fitter than some 35-year-olds," she stated.
Murugi addressed other issues raised by the MPs including a query on her net worth which she stated was Ksh400 million.
"I am a UoN graduate. I have over 10 years experience in real estate; currently a director of a real estate company. I have been a member of this committee when I was MP. I served the people of Nyeri for two terms," she responded while justifying her nomination.
A section of Kenyans online however were not pleased that she was still seeking job opportunities having amassed what most considered enough wealth.
"Look at that, nearing 70 years, have invested in real estate and so on and is worth Ksh400 million! You still want to serve, what a madness in Kenya? Think of a poor mum back in the constituency where you served at your age with unemployed grandchild," one social media user noted.
Another posed, "Why do government insist on taking back people who have been rejected by voters. Isn't this telling us we don't know how to vote?"
