Githeri man: Life has been tough

He looks back to that day, when his democratic duty exercised at the Kayole polling station introduced him to the world of recognition, but at the same time flung him to depression, ridicule and regret.

Riding on his fame, many corporates promised him heaven. Some used his pictures on their advertisements, others offered getaways, some gave him cash and land, but none accorded him a lasting solution to his chronic economic woes nor a nostrum to his money management naivety.

Today, Kamotho, who is 48 years old, says nothing has changed in his life for the better. If anything, things have worsened - economically.

Some corporates, seeking to gain visibility, offered Githeri man cash, clothes and trips after he became famous during the 2017 polls. [File, Standard]

The 48-year-old hopes to pick himself, survive the tough economic times wrought by inflation due to high food and fuel prices.

"Things are tough for many people. In my neighbourhood, if you ask someone to lend you Sh20, no one claims to have the money. I'm however optimistic that the situation will improve," he said.

Kamotho hopes to help in changing Kenya's economic trajectory by electing responsible leaders in the August 9, 2022 General Election.

"I still dream of a prosperous Kenya. I'll, therefore, wake up very early in the morning, like I did five years ago, to vote for leaders who will steer the country efficiently. Today, everyone in Kenya is encountering tough economic times," he said.

His biggest regret, he says, is "getting fame that faded as fast as it grew".

"In my neighbourhood in Kayole, they nicknamed me 'governor' besides the more popular Githeri man tag," said the father of three.

His advice to Kenyans as the elections fast approach is "vote wisely".