Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has strongly dismissed claims by Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi and Development Empowerment Party (DEP) leader Lenny Kivuti that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) plans to rig the upcoming Mbeere North by-election.
Speaking at Cianyi in Mbeere North, Embu County, during the launch of a government-funded school feeding programme, Ruku described the rigging allegations as baseless and politically motivated. He accused the two leaders of spreading panic because they feared an impending electoral loss.
“It is very unfortunate that during their recent meeting, they did not speak a word about their manifesto or what their candidate plans to do for the people. While we are focused on development, they are busy spreading propaganda,” Ruku said.
The CS urged Muturi and Kivuti to focus on presenting their candidate’s agenda instead of peddling conspiracy theories. He emphasized that UDA had no plans to interfere with the Mbeere North by-election or the 2027 General Election, insisting that the party was committed to fair and transparent democratic processes.
Ruku expressed confidence in UDA’s candidate, Leonard Wa Muthende, saying he enjoyed massive grassroots support. He cited Muthende’s consistent engagement with residents and his development-focused agenda as key reasons for his growing popularity.
Highlighting his own tenure as Mbeere North MP, Ruku pointed to projects like the Gìkuyari-Mùmìnjì-Ishiara road, which was tendered through his lobbying efforts, as proof of his commitment to the region’s development.
“These are crocodile tears from leaders who have sensed the outcome. The people of Mbeere North have already made their choice; they will vote for Leonard Wa Muthende. No amount of political noise will change that,” he said.
Ruku also challenged Muturi and Kivuti to account for their decades in government, urging them to let voters decide freely.
Former Mbeere North MP and current Presidential Advisor Muriuki Njagagua, who joined Ruku at the event, praised the CS for his exemplary service, calling him one of the most effective Cabinet Secretaries in the current administration.
