In a classic example of a lie traveling halfway around the world before the truth gets its pants on, opposition leader Raila Odinga is the latest victim of fake news when he responded to a fake letter addressed to Governor Joho.

The letter dated March 28 claims that the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) management has summoned the embattled governor to explain why he refers to himself as Simba 001.

The letter whose undersigned is an office holder by the name Prisca Waweru with the title ‘Human-Animal Conflict Resolution Manager’, reads: “It has been brought to our attention that on several occasions you (Joho) have referred to yourself as Simba 001.

“We would like you to visit our offices on March 29, 2017 at 2pm and clarify how you acquired the name Simba. We look forward to your cooperation.”

Speaking at Orange House on Tuesday afternoon, Raila, unaware the letter was fake, rubbished the letter saying ‘Hiyo ni Takataka.’

In a video shared online, Raila’s aide, Andrew Mondoh is seen informing Raila about the letter as he was addressing Bunge la Wananchi members on NASA’s preparation ahead of August 8 poll.

“Excuse me, Raila. They are summoning Joho to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) on the 29th (of March) to explain how he acquired that name Simba, now the harassment is getting worse,” said Mr Mondoh.

Responding to the info, Raila said: “Hiyo ni takataka,” before focusing his attention to the audience present to say: “Now, the KWS has written a letter addressed to Joho enquiring why he uses the name Simba – that he should go to KWS and explain how he got that name Simba. That is stupidity! It shows how the Jubilee leadership has panicked ahead of the August 8 poll. We’ll continue marching forward.”

Watch the video, courtesy of eDaily: