The clamour for leadership among Kenyan youths has been a force the Jubilee administration has had to reckon with since taking office in 2013.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has in particular come under fire in the recent past after making state appointments which several quarters felt were void of youth representation.
He was accused of “recycling” the same faces that have been in government and Kenya’s private sector for ages while the country has young minds with the potential to do better.
However, NASA strategist and renowned economist Dr. David Ndii offered a three-step remedy to youths who feel shortchanged in their representation in government echelons.
He said contrary to what many think; age is not a determining factor for holding a leadership position in Kenya and also reminded them that leadership is not similar to parenting-it requires zeal.
In a tweet, Ndii noted: “Memo to youth demanding power, age is not a qualification, leadership is not parenting; stop asking, do.”
Alligator James, a follower of Ndii was critical of his advice stating that a majority of leadership positions in the public and private sector in the country is held by Ndii’s generation born in mid 1955s and 1970s.
“Ua (sic) generation those born btwn (sp) 1955-1970 are the ones in leadership positions both in private and public sector &have hoarded opportunities, when history is written it shall be chronicled that they messed what was a promising country and wiped out the gains made by Kibaki,” said James.
Ndii in response to James’ assertion said, “Which opportunities have we hoarded [?] Take a good look at your numbers. There are 3 of you for each one of us. You are on your own.”
The NASA strategist added that nothing was handed to them; they chose to fight for democracy and got what the jobs which are now envied by the youths.
“You will be given nothing. We were not granted opportunity. Some of us choose to sacrifice and fight for democracy,” Ndii opined.
Adul Tonny though, said youths are not demanding for power but want their input involved in making of key decisions affecting the country in different spheres.
“The youth are not demanding power. They’re asking to be involved in coming up with solutions to their problems. In project management, one of the key aspects is stakeholders engagement to ensure sustainability,” Tonny said.