DRC Consul-General nominee, Charles Githinji, equates GDP to population

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.

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.