Dennis Itumbi Heckled at KK Mwenyewe’s Burial Over Government Promises to Content Creators
Tensions ran high during the burial of beloved comedian KK Mwenyewe as Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, was heckled by a section of mourners while delivering his tribute.
Itumbi, who had been actively involved in fundraising and funeral planning, took the stage to highlight government initiatives supporting content creators in Kenya, including plans to form a SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative) for digital artists.
“You need to create your own SACCO ambayo tutasupport, ili tuhakikishe kuwa mko na pesa ambayo mnatumia kwa sasa,” he stated, urging unity among creatives.
However, before he could proceed, a mourner shouted “Uongo!”, sparking loud chants from the crowd. Anti-government slogans, including “Ruto must go” and “Kasongo ni Wantam” echoed throughout the venue, disrupting his speech.
Despite the backlash, Itumbi attempted to push forward:
“It is our duty to ensure content creators earn their money. You can shout all you want, but these content creators need money in their pockets.”
His speech was eventually cut short by continued heckling.
High-Profile Donations and Government Support Promises
Prior to the burial, Itumbi helped coordinate a successful fundraiser at Blue Springs Hotel, where key leaders pledged over Ksh 1.5 million for funeral expenses:
President William Ruto – Ksh 1,000,000
Governor Susan Kihika – Ksh 200,000
Dennis Itumbi – Ksh 100,000
MP Mburu Kahangara – Ksh 100,000
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah – Ksh 100,000
Itumbi also announced a government job for comedian Kafengo, a close friend of the late KK Mwenyewe, set to begin on July 28, 2025. Additionally, he pledged support for KK’s sister’s education.
Who Was KK Mwenyewe?
KK Mwenyewe, born Kennedy Kinyanjui, rose to online fame for his humorous and accurate impersonations of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, earning a loyal fan base across Kenya. He passed away while receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.
The funeral, held at his rural home in Lari Constituency, attracted hundreds of mourners, including government officials, celebrities, and content creators. What was expected to be a solemn tribute to a young talent instead exposed deep frustrations among digital artists over unfulfilled government promises.
