Gachagua launches door-to-door blitz in Mbeere North as by-election battle heats up

“I am with the villagers every step of the way, one by one, home by home, village by village in a motif to liberate one nation, Kenya,” Gachagua wrote on X. 

“I had an interactive experience in my morning walk on a vote drive for my favorite candidate Newton Karish who is a people-centered candidate.”

On Monday, he described his morning walk through Mbeere North as “an exhilarating, breathtaking experience,” saying he combined his pursuit of good health with a door-to-door campaign for Karish.

“I met my fellow villagers in homes to commission door-to-door campaign. I am very encouraged by the response and assistance by the residents; they cannot sell their vote no matter the price,” he said.

“For the next nine days, I am on the ground, listening and engaging the people of Mbeere North.” 

The parliamentary seat was left vacant following the appointment of Geoffrey Ruku as Cabinet Secretary of Public Service and Human Capital Development.

The campaign has escalated into a high-stakes political showdown with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who is backing United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Muriuki Wamuthende. 

Both leaders are seeking to consolidate their influence and assert dominance over the Mt. Kenya vote.

During a series of rallies across the constituency Gachagua pledged to remain on the ground in Muminji to safeguard votes, insisting the opposition is poised to deliver a decisive defeat to UDA.

“I have come to protect the votes here in Muminji. I will stay until the very end,” he said. 

His campaign has received endorsements from political figures such as former CS Mithika Linturi, who described him as a trustworthy leader.

Other opposition figures joined Gachagua on the campaign trail. DAP–K leader Eugene Wamalwa declared Mbeere North the symbolic birthplace of a restored united Opposition, while Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka rallied supporters, backing Karish as the coalition’s undisputed candidate.

Meanwhile, Kindiki has been actively mobilizing voters, framing his campaign around continuity and completion of development projects initiated during Ruku’s tenure.

“President Ruto’s government has commenced roads, water, electricity and other projects that are ongoing. The best person to ensure they are completed is Leo,” Kindiki said at a rally in Siakago town.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and CS Geoffrey Ruku have also been leading a parallel campaign trail for Wamuthende, drumming up his support across the constituency.

The 10-day campaign is being closely observed with political analyst saying the poll will test the strength of President Ruto’s support in the region, as well as the influence of his estranged former deputy.