DRC Consul-General nominee, Charles Githinji, equates GDP to population
National
By
Esther Nyambura
| Apr 12, 2024
Charles Githinji, President William Ruto's nominee for Consul-General to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) told a vetting committee on Thursday that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) equates to a country's total population.
His response would send the room in shocked whispers, as much as it elicited reactions online.
Responding to a query regarding the definition of GDP, Githinji told the National Assembly's Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations Committee that; "GDP is the current population and the escalation of the population of a country."
Much to the surprise of all and sundry, he added: "I will go back to foreign affairs academy to learn more about this job."
His response, deemed surprising for a Consul-General nominee, underscores the expectation that such appointees should have fundamental economic knowledge, crucial for representing Kenyan commercial interests in Goma if confirmed.
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Appointed by President Ruto last month, Githinji's potential responsibilities as Consul-General include the formulation and execution of Kenya's foreign policy, safeguarding national interests, and advocating for the commercial interests of Kenyan citizens.
Basic requirements for the role include holding a degree and a minimum of five years of experience in a customer-facing capacity.
While his educational background remains unclear, his prior employment as a petrol station attendant precedes his nomination.