Mbeere North By-election: Rival Parties Intensify Campaigns Ahead of 27 November Vote

Rival political teams in Mbeere North have intensified their campaigns ahead of the 27 November parliamentary by-election, using assertive tactics to secure voter support.

The seat fell vacant after Geoffrey Ruku was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, turning the race into a high-profile contest that has drawn senior figures from both government and opposition. On 18 November, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki led the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) campaign in Karambari ward, making a public stop at a local eatery before addressing a rally for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende Muriuki.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua led the opposition push in Riandu Market, Nthawa ward, campaigning for Democratic Party candidate Newton Kariuki, known as Karish. He criticised UDA’s approach and accused Kindiki of adopting tactics typically used by the opposition.

Opposition leaders have spread their efforts across several by-election areas, with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka campaigning in Magarini, Kilifi, for Stanley Karisa Kenga. Despite increased activity in multiple regions, the campaigns have remained largely peaceful, although both sides continue to accuse each other of planning disruptions.

UDA has reinforced its presence through Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, a prominent party ally and frequent critic of Gachagua. Tensions rose when CS Ruku rejected claims that Gachagua had visited his grandmother during a door-to-door tour. 

Photographs of Gachagua interacting with residents circulated widely, but Ruku dismissed the reports, stating that his parents and grandmother died years ago. He accused some media outlets of promoting inaccurate information that could create division in the constituency.

Both coalitions have committed to maintaining a strong presence in Mbeere North until voting day. Gachagua has taken a central role in supporting Kariuki after the Democracy for Citizens Party candidate stepped down in his favour, while Kindiki and Ruku continue to lead UDA’s campaign for Wamuthende.