A Viral Request Leads to a High-Profile Meeting

NAIROBI – In a unique intersection of social media culture and Kenyan politics, Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Friday, October 24, 2025, hosted TikTok content creator Zedekia Omengo Ouma, popularly known as 'Papa Lewiso'. The meeting at the CS's Nairobi office was prompted by a video clip that went viral across digital platforms, in which Omengo humorously asked the minister for KSh 100 to purchase mobile data bundles.

The widely circulated clip was recorded during a tense moment at Kasarani Stadium, where crowds had gathered for the public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's body. In the video, Omengo spotted CS Murkomen, who was at the venue in his official capacity, and shouted, "Murkomen, help me with KSh 100 for data. I don't want too much money." He then added a comical critique of the Cabinet Secretary's attire, remarking on his slim-fit trousers, which he referred to as "pencil" and "tight," sparking amusement among bystanders and online audiences.

Context of the Encounter

The original video captured a moment of disorder at the stadium on Thursday, October 16, 2025, which required intervention from security forces. CS Murkomen was filmed moving across the field to coordinate with police and help de-escalate the situation. It was during this activity that Omengo made his now-famous plea. While the request for data was genuine in its appeal, Omengo later clarified during his meeting with the CS that the audio in the viral clip had been edited and synced with the video for comedic effect, stating it was intended as entertainment rather than mockery.

The interaction quickly transcended its origins, becoming a talking point on national social media channels. It underscored a growing trend of Kenyans using digital platforms to directly address, critique, and sometimes petition their leaders in an unfiltered manner. The boldness and humour of the request resonated with many, leading to widespread sharing and ultimately catching the attention of the Cabinet Secretary himself.

A Platform for Dialogue

Rather than ignoring the viral jab, CS Murkomen embraced the situation, inviting Omengo for a face-to-face conversation. The meeting was light-hearted, with the CS jokingly asking if Omengo had worn "pencil" trousers to his office. Beyond the humour, the engagement served as a platform for a more serious discussion on the role of youth and content creation in the digital economy.

In a statement following the meeting, Murkomen commended Omengo for his creativity and highlighted the government's appreciation for young people who use their talents to create entertaining content that is free from hate speech and divisiveness. "Social media is a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Let us use it responsibly to inspire others and drive positive change in our society," the CS stated on Friday, October 24. He affirmed the government's commitment to fostering an environment that supports innovation and empowers young Kenyans to earn a living through their talents.

Implications for Public Engagement

The meeting between Murkomen and Omengo is significant for what it represents in the evolution of public discourse in Kenya. It demonstrates a Cabinet Secretary's willingness to engage with online trends and directly interact with citizens who use humour and social media to be heard. This approach can be seen as a strategic move to connect with a younger, digitally-native demographic.

For content creators like 'Papa Lewiso', the event validates their platform's influence, showing that a viral moment can translate into tangible engagement with the country's leadership. After the meeting, Omengo expressed his gratitude to the CS, noting that the encounter had been life-changing. This incident serves as a case study in the power of social media to collapse traditional hierarchies, allowing for direct, albeit unconventional, lines of communication between the governed and those in power.