Political Heavyweights Clash in Mbeere North By-Election Showdown

Politics Updated: 21 November 2025 16:48 EAT

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BY MICHEAL WACHIRA,

The battle for the vacant Mbeere North Member of Parliament seat has intensified, turning the by-election into a major political showdown between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and the united opposition, led by the Democratic Congress Party (DCP).

The seat was declared vacant after the former area MP, George Ruku, was appointed as a Cabinet Secretary by President William Ruto, necessitating the November 27 poll.

The opposition camp injected significant momentum into the race when DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua stormed the constituency on Monday, November 17, to campaign for the DCP candidate, Newton Kariuki. Gachagua adopted an aggressive door-to-door campaign style, personally engaging residents to bolster support for Kariuki.

In response, the Kenya Kwanza brigade quickly swung into action, mirroring the door-to-door formula. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited Mbeere North residents to campaign for the UDA party candidate, Lawrence Muthende.

Kindiki's presence, alongside other government officials, including CS George Ruku, who urged residents to vote for Muthende to "continue being in the government," has raised concerns across the country regarding the use of state resources in the by-election campaigns.

Political analysts have underscored the national significance of the November by-election, viewing it as a clear indicator of public sentiment towards the current government. They argue that the outcome will be closely watched as it may project the prevailing political climate ahead of the 2027 General Elections.