Janet Mbugua on why she turned down Moses Kuria's DG offer

In a statement on her Instagram posted on Thursday, the mother of two said she was not available for a role in active politics, but noted that she would be available in support of quality service for the people of Kiambu, and in particular, the more vulnerable women and girls. 

“Thanks Moses Kuria for considering me capable to serve Kiambu County as Dep Gov. Indeed, active engagement in politics I’snt for me at the moment,” Ms Mbugua wrote on Instagram. 

“ I remain available in support of quality service to the good people of Kiambu & all of Kenya, more so vulnerable women & girls,”

Her statement comes in the wake of the revelation that she was among candidates approached by the controversial legislator. 

Early Thursday, Kuria claimed in a series of tweets that Ms. Mbugua had declined his offer due to personal obligations, and that he was "shattered” by the decision. 

“I am shattered. After scoring the highest marks in the talent search for Kiambu Deputy Governor, Janet Mbugua will not be taking up the job due to unforeseen personal emergencies that she has to attend to in the immediate term,” wrote the MP.

While hailing Mbugua as an inspirational figure in the society, Kuria said his government would nonetheless seek her partnership in future should he clinch Kiambu’s top seat in the August General Election.

“My administration will definitely find a way to benefit from @OfficialJMbugua experience and capacity in the future. I feel the loss. Janet is a huge inspiration for the youth, for professionals, for women and for young mothers of this country," he added.

Kuria has previously stated that he is seeking a female candidate to deputize him. In a statement issued on March 9, the legislator stated that any aspiring successor must meet the threshold for all of his requirements.

“Moses Kuria is seeking to deploy his 15 years of solid experience in banking locally and abroad and 9 years as a member of Parliament with a proven delivery record to transform Kiambu County to the same status as the City-State of Singapore,” read a section of the statement.

“To deliver on this programme, Moses Kuria is looking for an aggressive, self-motivated, self-driven lady professional to take up the role of the Deputy Governor.”

The legislator went on to describe his deputy's qualifications as one of academic excellence and leadership experience.

"Master's Degree and a proven track record leading a complex organization with at least 10 years of work experience, five of which must be at the senior executive level.

The Chama Cha Kazi (CCM) party leader emphasizes that the applicant must be a Kiambu County resident.

He further urged interested candidates to send their resumes by March 18.

In the Kiambu race, Kuria will be facing off with six contestants: Kiambu Governor James Nyoro and Senator Kimani Wamatangi, Former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo and Ferdinand Waititu.

Others in the heated race include Thika Town MP Patrick Wainaina and Mwende Gatabaki, the wife of economist David Ndii.