Dennis Itumbi Slams Daily Nation Over SHA Whistleblower Report: “A Factory of Lies!”
A fiery war of words erupted on Friday after Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, accused the Daily Nation of misreporting facts surrounding whistleblower Andrew Rotich’s job status at the Social Health Authority (SHA).
“Rotich Was Never Dropped”—Itumbi Dismisses Job Loss Claims
Itumbi came out swinging, refuting claims that Rotich lost his position after exposing a multimillion-shilling medical billing scam. He insisted the whistleblower had not applied for the Deputy Director role, contrary to the paper’s report.
“Andrew Rotich never applied for Deputy Director like the lying newsroom at Nation alleges,” Itumbi declared. “He applied for Assistant Director and is already shortlisted,” he added.
A cover section of the Daily Nation’s September 26, 2025, issue and an insert of the SHA offices.
“The Nation styles itself as the Home of Truth, but is full of lies as usual—a factory of lies!” Itumbi fired.
Whistleblower’s Role Sparks Debate Over Retaliation
The Daily Nation had reported that Rotich’s whistleblowing may have influenced his removal. The paper claimed he was initially appointed Deputy Director of Forensic Audit and Risk Assurance in April but failed to make the shortlist for fresh interviews.
“His revelations led to the closure of 1,300 rogue hospitals,” the report stated.
This sparked public debate, with many questioning whether SHA was punishing an official who exposed deep-rooted corruption.
However, Itumbi maintained that the recruitment process had nothing to do with Rotich’s whistleblowing.
“His job prospects remain intact. The process is ongoing and unrelated to the saga,” he clarified.
“Verify Your Facts”—Itumbi Challenges Media Ethics
Itumbi, a former journalist himself, urged the media to uphold professionalism and accuracy. He criticized the Daily Nation for publishing what he called fabricated content.
“Truth happens once in a while at Nation, but lies dominate,” he said.
He also referenced a previous incident on September 8, where the paper claimed President Ruto held unsuccessful meetings with top police officials in Mombasa.
“The President wasn’t even in Mombasa. That was a complete fabrication,” Itumbi stated.
He called on newsrooms to verify facts before publishing, especially when reporting on sensitive government matters.
Public Reaction Mixed as Debate Intensifies
Kenyans online reacted with mixed emotions. Some supported Itumbi’s stance, while others demanded transparency from both SHA and the media.
“We need facts, not feuds,” one user posted. “Whistleblowers must be protected, not punished,” another added.
As the saga unfolds, the truth remains under scrutiny.
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Dennis Itumbi Slams Daily Nation Over SHA Whistleblower Report: “A Factory of Lies!”
