Residents of Mt Kenya region are witnessing an upsurge of fake 1, 000 note circulation, something a number of residents attribute to the election season where prominent aspirants are using money as bait to help mobilize members of the public to attend their political rallies.
The reports come just a few days after Mr. Sammy Gitau, 71, hit the news for landing in trouble when he walked to a bank agent in Maragua town and withdrew Sh3,000, part of the stipend that he receives from the government as a senior citizen, not knowing the notes were fake.
A Wangige resident in Kiambu county who spoke to this publication says it is the first time they are witnessing a number of people complain of receiving fake monies and claims it could be a deliberate move from some leaders to flood the region with the counterfeit cash days to the August polls.
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”The fake notes are from politicians, people know it. The problem is we take the fake money unknowingly. You cant sleep hungry if you are assured of 1,000 shillings just for wearing a t-shirt and attending a rally for two hours,” he says.
Mt Kenya, also President Uhuru Kenyatta’s backyard has witnessed intense political activity, especially from DP William Ruto, than any other part of the country. UDA is said to be enjoying the support of a majority of residents, who prefer William Ruto as their leader.
Azimio Movement Raila Odinga on the other hand has his presidential campaigns board chaired by a Mt Kenya native, Laikipia Governor Nderitu Muriithi. Mr. Odinga has won a number of allies from the region, especially Jubilee leaders backing President Uhuru Kenyatta and continues to campaign in the vote-rich block.
