Former MP Mary Wambui Tells Off Critics, Says She’s Qualified for State Job

Former Othaya MP Mary Wambui has responded to critics who claim that she is unqualified to chair the National Employment Authority.

Ms. Wambui, who served as the Member of Parliament for Othaya from 2007 to 2013, was appointed to the position in a gazette notice dated October 14th, 2019.

Kenyans on social media, including some political leaders, questioned Ms. Wambui’s capacity to hold the position citing her age and questionable academic qualifications among other issues.

Jubilee nominated Senator Millicent Omanga said the appointment of Wambui was ill-advised, arguing that the job should have been given to a youthful person who understands the plight of jobless youth in the country. 

“Indeed a sad day for the youth of this country… The Appointment of ex Othaya MP Mary Wambui to head National Employment Authority is a spat on the face of the Kenyan youth,” wrote Omanga.

She added: “You can’t convince me that someone who is intellectually ungifted and has limited knowledge on the intricate challenges unemployed graduates are grappling with will be in a position to craft strategies and policy formulations to help eradicate unemployment in this country.”

“Does Wambui have the remotest idea what it feels like to hold a degree certificate yet you can’t find a job with it?”

Former presidential aspirant Mohamed Abduba Dida tweeted: “When you think you have seen it all, the government pulls another one.” 

Responding to her critics, Ms. Wambui stated that she was appointed to the position because she is the most qualified candidate.

“I got the post because I am better than those complaining. I have the qualifications and experience to run the office,” she told Daily Nation.

Established through the National Employment Authority Act 2016, the authority is mandated to increase access to employment for the youth among other roles.