Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka declines Ruto’s job over row with DP Gachagua

Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka has announced his decision to decline the position of chairman of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre, a day after President William Ruto appointed him to the role.

In a statement posted on his X page on Sunday, October 6, Munyaka expressed gratitude to the Head of State for the opportunity but cited the current political tension in the country as a key factor in his decision.

"I have learnt of my appointment by His Excellency, President William Ruto, as the chairman of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre through a Kenya Gazette notice dated October 3, 2024," he wrote.

"I thank the Head of State for offering me the opportunity to serve Kenyans in such a capacity. However, after soul-searching and extensive consultations, I have made the difficult decision to respectfully decline this appointment."

Munyaka's decision comes amid escalating tensions between President Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is facing impeachment. The fallout between the two has created division among the Kenya Kwanza Party members.

President William Ruto, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Prime Minister Raila Odinga and DP Rigathi Gachagua head to address the media at KICC, Nairobi, on July 10, 2024, after Ruto signed into law the IEBC (Amendment) Bill, 2024. (Photo: PCS)

"I have made the difficult decision also in consideration of the current political climate that threatens the realisation of the government's economic transformation agenda," he added.

Gachagua made an emotional appeal for forgiveness to Ruto during a church service in Karen, Nairobi, on the same day.

"I want to say to my brother, President William Ruto: if I’ve wronged you in our zeal to work, please find it in your heart to forgive me," he stated.

He also extended an apology on behalf of his wife, Dorcas Rigathi, for any perceived missteps related to her programme for the boy child.

Meanwhile, Munyaka's appointment was one of seven made by Ruto, each serving a tenure of three years, as announced in a gazette notice published on October 4.

This latest development follows Munyaka's previous nomination for Chief Administrative Secretary at the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, a position later deemed unconstitutional by the courts.