Dennis Itumbi has faced a cold reception from mourners during the funeral of comedian KK Mwenyewe in Githirioni village, Limuru.
Itumbi, Head of Presidential special projects and creative economy, 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."
His speech was cut short shortly thereafter.
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.