NAIROBI – June 25, 2025
Senior State House official Dennis Itumbi has launched a scathing attack on The Standard newspaper, accusing it of spreading fabricated propaganda and abandoning the principles of ethical journalism.
Itumbi’s fury was triggered by an investigative exposé by the paper, which alleged that the government is actively plotting to sabotage the Gen Z-led protests scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
“Journalism is the pursuit of truth; anything less is gossip,” said Itumbi in a statement shared on his social media.
“For some newspapers like The Standard, that line isn’t blurred. It’s been buried. Their editorial mantra is not about facts. It’s about fabrication.”
The Alleged Plot to Derail Gen Z Day
According to The Standard, the exposé is based on leaked messages from WhatsApp groups allegedly involving government bloggers, UDA secretariat staff, parastatal chiefs, and other senior officials.
The report claimed that:
- Goons would be mobilized to infiltrate the peaceful protests.
- The aim would be to discredit protesters by inciting chaos.
- Digital propaganda was planned to portray the protests as unruly.
- Women and journalists would be targeted, and phones stolen to prevent documentation.
- The National Police Service was allegedly aware of the scheme.
This alleged plan echoes previous incidents, such as the June 17 protest for fallen protester Albert Ojwang, where looting occurred under police watch. Civilians reportedly retaliated, assaulting the infiltrators.
Itumbi Dismisses Claims as Fiction
Itumbi did not mince words, accusing The Standard of deliberately publishing misinformation to ignite public fear.
“This is not a tabloid, or even gutter press—it is an insult to journalism,” he said.
“The only agenda here is to delegitimize government institutions using imaginary conspiracies.”
He defended the government’s stance, maintaining that peaceful assembly is protected, but violence will not be tolerated.
Also Read: Kenya Kwanza leaders demand arrest of Gen Z protest planners
June 25 Protests: A National Flashpoint
The Gen Z demonstrations, also referred to as “Gen Z Day,” are in memory of young Kenyans killed during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
Planned to take place mainly in Nairobi’s CBD, the protests are being led by families of victims and youth activists. Organisers insist the events will be peaceful, despite warnings from government officials and security agencies.
More Coverage: Why June 25 has become a symbol of Gen Z resistance
Tensions remain high as Kenyans wait to see how the government will balance freedom of assembly with national security.
