Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, has dismissed reports suggesting a rift between him and President William Ruto’s speech writer, Eric Ng’eno. Speaking on the matter, Itumbi rubbished the claims as baseless and misleading, asserting that his long-standing working relationship with Ng’eno remains intact and focused on delivering the Kenya Kwanza administration’s agenda.
A local daily had earlier reported that Itumbi, Ng’eno, and another aide, Jayesh Sain, were allegedly embroiled in disagreements stemming from what was termed a “chaotic communications system” within the presidency. The article implied that tensions were rising among the top communication strategists surrounding President Ruto.
However, Itumbi refuted the claims in a social media post, writing, “Some stuff just exists in newspaper headlines. I’ve worked with @EricNgeno for over 10 years — no fallout, no feud. But if sideshows and gossip keep you entertained, muendelee. Our eyes are on the prize: Delivery over distractions.”
He emphasized that their focus is squarely on implementing the Kenya Kwanza plan and not on petty distractions or sensational headlines.
Itumbi and Ng’eno’s professional journey dates back to the administration of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, where they served in key communication roles while William Ruto was Deputy President. Ng’eno served as the official speech writer, while Itumbi held the position of State House Digital Strategist and Director of Diaspora Communications.
The duo was later ousted from their roles during President Kenyatta’s second term, following a major shake-up in the State House communications team. Itumbi’s position, along with those of other directors under the Presidential Strategic Communications Unit (PSCU), was declared redundant.
Despite these setbacks, both Itumbi and Ng’eno found their way back into the heart of government under President Ruto’s leadership, reaffirming their continued collaboration and shared commitment to advancing the administration’s priorities.
Itumbi’s dismissal of the alleged fallout underscores the inner circle’s intent to remain united and results-oriented amid growing scrutiny of the presidency’s internal operations.
