A respected wines and spirits distributor in Kabati, Kitui West Sub-County has been cleared of allegations linking his business to the sale of counterfeit alcohol.
Mr. James Malombe, popularly known as Chonjo, operates a wines and spirits wholesale shop in Kabati that has served customers for more than ten years. Investigations and a physical visit to his premises have confirmed that the business is fully licensed and compliant with government regulations governing the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages.
Authorities and several of his clients have also confirmed that the establishment stocks genuine products sourced from recognized and reliable suppliers.
Mr. Malombe has built a strong reputation over the years as a hardworking entrepreneur and a respected member of the Kabati business community. In addition to running his business, he also serves as the Chairman of Kabati Market, a role that reflects the confidence local traders have in his leadership.
Local sources say the allegations circulating on sections of social media and some media platforms were false and misleading, and may have been fueled by business rivalry and malicious propaganda aimed at damaging the reputation of a successful local enterprise.
Residents and business leaders have condemned the spread of unverified claims online and urged authorities to investigate those behind the smear campaign.
Investigations have further established that Mr. Malombe does not operate a bar near any school in Kabati as alleged. His establishment is a licensed alcohol wholesale outlet and is not located near any learning institution.
Authorities have been called upon to investigate, arrest and prosecute individuals responsible for spreading the false information, noting that such action would help deter similar attempts to tarnish the reputation of legitimate businesses.
The public has been urged to disregard the misinformation and continue supporting legitimate enterprises operating within the law.
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