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 had been involved in funeral planning and fundraising efforts, but was heckled by a section of the crowd as he attempted to deliver his tribute.
Itumbi had begun by mentioning the interventions the government has taken to safeguard content creation, urging creators to group into one entity and safeguard their finances.
“You need to create your own sacco ambayo tutasupport, ili tuhakikishe kuwa mko na pesa ambayo mnatumia kwa sasa,” he said, referring to the need for financial structures to support content creators.
But before he could continue, one mourner shouted, “Uongo!”
Visibly irked amid cheers, Itumbi pushed on: “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. We will ensure money gets to their pockets.”
Itumbi’s remarks were met with immediate disapproval with shouts of ‘Uongo!’ and ‘Kasongo ni Wantam,’ echoing across the venue.
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.
Itumbi also used the moment to announce that fellow content creator and KK Mwenyewe’s friend, comedian Kafengo, would soon receive a job opportunity that would be geared towards improving the state of digital content creation in the country.
The funeral drew scores of mourners who gathered to bid farewell to KK Mwenyewe, known for his humorous impersonations of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The comedian died while receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.
Ahead of the burial, Itumbi had taken an active role in raising funds.
During a fundraiser at Blue Springs Hotel, he announced several high-profile contributions that helped surpass the Sh1.2 million needed for the funeral expenses.
“While seated here, I called the Governor of Nakuru, Susan Kihika, and told her I was at this function; she sent Sh200,000. I will add Sh100,000. The MP where we will bury our brother, named Mburu Kahangara, will contribute Sh100,000,” he said.
“Kimani Ichung’wah, the current Majority Leader, is giving Sh100,000. That is Sh500,000. Then the President, Dr. William Ruto, has donated one million shillings,” he added to applause from the room.
