Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka has declined his appointment as chairman of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre by President William Ruto.

Ruto in a Kenya Gazette notice published on Friday, October 4 appointed Munyaka, a long-time ally of his, to lead the state agency for three years.

In response, Dr Munyaka on Sunday, October 6 shared a brief statement on social media, turning down the appointment.

“I thank the Head of State for offering me the opportunity to serve Kenyans in such a capacity. However, after soul-searching, extensive consultations and consideration of the current political climate that threatens the realization of the government's economic transformation agenda, I have made the difficult decision to respectfully decline this appointment,” Dr Munyaka said.

“Thank you again for considering me for this position. I wish you and your administration success in leading our country.”

Ruto previously nominated Munyaka for the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) post at the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, but the CAS role was declared unconstitutional by the court.

The former Machakos MP lost his bid to defend his seat in the 2022 general election.

Munyaka was contesting on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party ticket but lost to Caleb Mule of the Maendeleo Chap Chap party.