A short video clip shared online recently has sparked widespread discussion across Kenyan social media, once again placing former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko at the center of public attention.
In the viral clip, Sonko confidently displays one of his mobile phones, showing a cash balance of KSh 303,000. While that amount alone drew interest, what truly stole the spotlight was the Fuliza overdraft limit visible on the screen.
The figure appeared unusually massive, far beyond what most ordinary Kenyans can ever access through the popular service.
As expected, reactions online were fast and mixed. Some netizens were clearly impressed and amused by what they saw. Jokes quickly flooded timelines, with people comparing Sonko’s Fuliza limit to full monthly salaries or even yearly earnings.
One user on X joked that the limit looked like “a two-year salary for some people,” a comment that captured the humor and disbelief shared by many viewers. For these users, the clip was another example of Sonko being Sonko, bold, confident, and unafraid to show off his wealth.
Source of the story/Tuko
However, not everyone was convinced. A section of Kenyans questioned whether the display was genuine or carefully staged for attention. Some wondered if the clip was a calculated PR move meant to stir conversation and keep Sonko relevant in the public space.
Others asked how such a high Fuliza limit could even be possible, especially when many users struggle to get approval for small overdrafts of a few hundred shillings.
The clip, though short, reopened old debates about Sonko’s wealth and his long-standing love for flamboyant gestures. Over the years, he has built a public image around living large.
From heavy gold chains and customized cars to public handouts and flashy appearances, Sonko has always embraced visibility. His supporters see this as generosity and confidence, while critics view it as unnecessary showmanship.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. Photo Courtesy: Mpasho.
This latest incident also raised questions about how Fuliza limits are determined. Fuliza, a product by Safaricom in partnership with NCBA and KCB Bank, is used by millions of Kenyans to cover shortfalls during daily transactions.
For most users, limits are modest and closely tied to usage patterns and repayment history. Sonko’s apparent limit, however, seemed more suitable for a corporate account than an individual wallet, which only deepened public curiosity and frustration.
The clip felt like a sharp reminder of the growing gap between political elites and the everyday mwananchi. At a time when rising costs of living are stretching household budgets and many families are celebrating Christmas under tight financial conditions.