Opposition leaders promise fierce battle as Mbeere north by-election heats up

During a series of rallies across the constituency, Opposition parties backing Democratic Party (DP) candidate Newton Karish expressed confidence that they would wrest the seat from UDA, framing the by-election as a defining contest over political influence in Mt. Kenya.

Mbeere North has rapidly transformed into a high-stakes battleground between the United Opposition coalition and the ruling party. Political observers say the poll will test the strength of President Ruto’s support in the region, as well as the influence of his estranged former deputy.

The United Opposition vowed to intensify its campaigns ahead of the November 27 vote, insisting they were poised to deliver a decisive defeat to UDA.

DAP–K leader Eugene Wamalwa declared Mbeere North the symbolic birthplace of a revitalized united Opposition, while Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka rallied supporters, affirming Karish as the coalition’s undisputed candidate.

The contest is increasingly shaping up as a two-horse race between UDA’s Leonard Wamuthende and Newton Karish, though a total of nine candidates are seeking the parliamentary seat.

The Government has reportedly boosted development initiatives in the constituency as senior officials step up efforts to secure victory for the ruling party.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has recently emerged as one of President Ruto’s most vocal critics, delivered a fiery message to the head of state, urging voters to use the by-election to demonstrate the region’s political resolve.

He also criticized Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, accusing them of being deployed to divide the Mbeere community.

As the Opposition leaders moved from one stop to another drumming up support for Karish, CS Ruku led a parallel campaign trail for Wamuthende, following closely behind in an effort to blunt the Opposition’s momentum.