The seat became vacant after former MP Geoffrey Ruku was appointed to the Cabinet, forcing voters to return to the ballot next week.
The by-election has attracted two key candidates: Leonard Wa Muthende of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Newton Karish of the Democratic Party (DP).
Both camps have mounted intense campaigns, turning Mbeere North into a major political battlefield for leaders from the Mount Kenya East region.
Kindiki Attacks Gachagua Over Development Record
While campaigning for Wa Muthende in Kanyuambora, Deputy President Kindiki used strong language against his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua.
Kindiki accused Gachagua of spending too much time insulting other leaders instead of presenting a record of what he achieved during his time as Deputy President.
Speaking to residents, Kindiki said Gachagua had no right to abuse him, and he questioned why the former DP was claiming to be a regional kingpin.
He insisted that leadership is measured by service and development, not by loud political statements.
“Ati unanitusi, mimi ni rika yako? Wewe ni kingpin for who?” Kindiki told the crowd.
He went on to tell Gachagua that he had warned him before he was impeached but Gachagua did not listen.
Kindiki said the former DP was suffering from problems he created himself.
Kindiki also encouraged the residents of Mbeere North to focus on choosing a leader who will work for them.
He praised Wa Muthende as a calm and focused candidate who understands the needs of the people.
Gachagua Fires Back, Questions Government Spending
In a separate campaign event at Ciangera and Kavengero, Gachagua responded strongly to Kindiki’s remarks.
He said the residents of Mbeere North had already decided who they would vote for, and he believed Karish was the right choice.
Gachagua also criticised the government, claiming that too much money was being spent on the by-election while citizens across Kenya were suffering.
He questioned why huge amounts of money — which he estimated at nearly half a billion shillings — were being poured into one constituency instead of helping needy families.
“Mimi nauliza Ruto na Kindiki, iko haja gani ya kumwaga nusu bilioni Mbeere na Wakenya wanateseka?” he asked.
He also questioned whether Wa Muthende would be a strong voice in Parliament if elected, urging voters to choose a leader who would speak boldly.
Residents of Mbeere North are now caught between two powerful political forces. Some support UDA’s Wa Muthende, believing he will align closely with the national government and bring development to the region.
Others support Karish, encouraged by Gachagua’s message of independence and accountability.
The clashing messages from the two leaders have created excitement, tension and confusion among voters.
Many residents are attending rallies from both sides, trying to understand which candidate truly represents their interests.
Local elders have urged both leaders to remain peaceful and stop using abusive language, saying the community needs unity more than political fights.
For Kindiki, the by-election offers a chance to strengthen UDA’s influence in Mount Kenya East.
For Gachagua, it is an opportunity to prove that he still has political strength even after losing the Deputy President position.
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Politics