Tensions ran high at the funeral of comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as KK Mwenyewe, as mourners turned on Head of Creative Economy and Special Projects, Dennis Itumbi, during his speech.
Itumbi was initially met with a warm reception when he took to the podium to address the crowd gathered to mourn the young comedian.
However, the mood quickly changed when he began speaking about government efforts to support the creative industry.
“We have also scrapped the DST tax. We have also made plans to ensure that content creators come together in a sacco where they can access funds,” he stated.
Itumbi's remarks were met with immediate disapproval with shouts of 'Uongo!' and 'Kasongo ni Wantam,' echoing across the venue.
Read More
In an attempt to regain control of the moment, Itumbi shifted his focus away from the government and addressed KK Mwenyewe’s grieving family.
He pledged support for KK’s sister’s education, but rather than calming the mourners, his gesture appeared to intensify their frustration.
More chants of 'Wantam! Wantam!' broke out shortly before he eventually left the stage.
“That’s okay, you can shout all you want, but these content creators need money in their pockets, and we will ensure money gets into their pockets,” he stated.
In the recent past, leaders and top government officials allied to President William Ruto have been heckled in public.
For instance, on Friday, April 4, Ruto was forced to intervene after Tharaka Nithi Women Representative Susan Ngugi was heckled while making her speech in Chuka Town.
The head of state who was touring the county had invited the county MP to make her remarks.
However, when she started speaking, a section of the crowd began to heckle her, forcing her to cut her speech short.
Afterwards, Ruto called on the residents to go easy on the MP.
"Surely, you people, this is a lady. Don't make too much noise for her," he pleaded.
