The appointment of comedian Vincent Mutua alias Chipukeezy as a member of the board of directors at the National Agency for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) is continuing to elicit mixed reactions among youth in Kiambu.
While a majority of the youth have welcomed the appointment others are raising questions over his competence.In an interview on Thursday, majority of the youth lauded the move noting that it is a good thing for young people.“Chipukeezy’s appointment is a good sign that the Jubilee government is finally recognizing the role of young people in development,” Marion Wanjiru said.Wanjiru said that Chipukeezy has the potential of playing a crucial role in the fight against drug abuse.“He (Chipukeezy) resonates well will with young people and I believe he will make an impact,” she said.Stephen Ndung’u, a student at local college in Kiambu Town also lauded the comedian’s appointment.Ndung’u, however, asked President Uhuru Kenyatta to appoint more young people to his government.He said the President should fulfil the promise to create employment for young people.However, a section of youth in the county has criticized Chipukeezy’s appointment.Peter Muchiri, a bodaboda operator in Kiambu Town said that Chipukeez’ys appointment adds no value to the fight against drug abuse. He said that Chipukeezy is a comedian and has no understanding of the role played by NACADA.“We need serious people in the fight against drug and substance abuse and Chipukeezy’s appointment is a mockery to the young people,” he added.Vivian M'mbone, a student at a local college in Kiambu Town also criticized the move.“I don’t think it was right for him to be appointed to that position because he has no clue when it comes to matters drug abuse,” she said.Chipukeezy will serve a three year non-renewable term. The comedian replaces Starehe MP and musician Charles Kanyi alias Jaguar who was appointed to the position two years ago.