Political drama unfolds
Tensions rose when political figures, including Digital Strategist Dennis Itumbi, took to the podium. Shouts of wantam (one term) interrupted speeches, with mourners and content creators accusing the government of neglecting the creative industry and failing to properly monetize digital content.
Despite the jeers, Itumbi maintained composure, pledging support for Kariuki's family. "We are working seriously on how to monetize content in this country. As a government, we are doing away with the digital service tax," said Itumbi.
He faced chants of "uwongo!" (lies) from a section of the crowd, while others clapped in support. Attempting to calm tensions, he added: "Even if people shout 'one term' at me, content creators are here for life."
He also promised to support Kariuki's sister through university education.
Former Limuru MP Peter Mwathi, who introduced political leaders to the gathering, delivered condolences from Deputy President Gachagua, who is currently in the U.S. Mwathi used the moment to criticize the Kenya Kwanza government's handling of youth protests.
"We are holding this country in trust for our young people and future generations. The continued and accelerated killing of our youths by the Kenya Kwanza government is hurting us deeply," he said.
He added: "What these young people want is someone to listen to them, not bullets and boots. We summarily condemn these atrocities."
In a veiled jab at Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah, Mwathi called for restraint among politicians when addressing sensitive issues, referencing recent remarks made by Ichung'wah against Pastor Dorcas Gachagua.