The Embu Leaders of Psychological Counsellors have called on the government to integrate qualified professionals into roles that match their expertise.
They said appointing inexperienced individuals to key positions and misplacement of leaders lead to departmental mismanagement and misappropriation of funds.
Led by Embu Chapter Chairman Rev. Fr. Isaiah Njiru and Secretary Prof. Wanjiru Mugai, they attributed this mismanagement as a contributing factor to the ongoing Gen Z demonstrations.
“The youth, many of whom are professionals in different fields are tired, and can’t wait to see the introduction of more taxes. We are in support of their demos,” the duo said.
“The youth are tired of seeing their qualifications go to waste while unqualified individuals are placed in positions of power. This is pushing them to the streets,” added Prof. Wanjiru.
The young protestors are vehemently demonstrating and picketing, urging MPs to reject the Finance Bill 2024 that aims at introducing more taxes to Kenyans.
Drawing a comparison with the administration of the late President Mwai Kibaki, the leaders highlighted how his use of professional think tanks contributed significantly to Kenya’s economic improvement.
“President Kibaki worked with qualified professionals and think tanks, which played a crucial role in the economic growth during his tenure. This is the kind of leadership we need today,” the priest who doubles as St. Augustine Teachers’ Training College-Ishiara said.
In light of the ongoing demonstrations and their sometimes tragic outcomes, the leaders urged fellow psychological counselors to step forward and offer support to the families of those who have died in the protests, as well as to the victims themselves.
“We have a responsibility to help those affected by this turmoil. Providing psychological support to grieving families and injured protestors is crucial,” urged Wanjiru.
Additionally, the counselors pointed to forced taxes and the economic hard times as major contributors to the psychological problems faced by many Kenyans.
“The burden of heavy taxation and the current economic hardships are causing severe stress and mental health issues among the population. These factors fuel the unrest and demonstrations we are witnessing,” she added.
Despite the strong push by Kenyans to vote NO on the Finance Bill 2024, at least 204 MPs voted YES last Thursday, fueling further protests.
The Finance Bill, 2024 passed the second reading stage last week with 204 MPs voting to approve it against 115 who rejected it.
The Psychological Counselors leaders urged the government to establish a transparent and merit-based framework for appointing professionals, ensuring that only those with the necessary qualifications and experience are in key roles.
“The youth are aware and vigilant. Deception and unfulfilled promises will only lead to further disillusionment and unrest,” they said.
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