Deputy Chief Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has intensified political heat in Mbeere North after leading a high-profile opposition campaign team on Sunday, accusing the government of using intimidation, violence, and money to influence the November 27 by-election.
Speaking during a church service at ACK Diocese of Mbeere in Embu County, Gachagua claimed that state-sponsored violence had been unleashed on his supporters. He alleged that goons were being transported into the constituency to disrupt opposition activities and create fear among residents.
Gachagua further accused senior government officials of splurging money in villages to sway voters, urging locals to reject attempts to “corrupt their democratic choice.”
“A time will come when I will come and close those ‘hotels’, our people cannot be bought,” he declared, suggesting that those distributing cash to sway the vote were undermining the dignity of the Embu community.
The by-election has sharply divided the region, with political tensions rising as rival camps exchange accusations. Gachagua said the contest was not only about political supremacy but also about restoring respect and autonomy to the people of Mbeere North.
He singled out Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku whose appointment to the Cabinet created the vacant seat and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, accusing them of contributing to the alleged intimidation.
“I have seen Ruku making noise everywhere. After sending Ruto home you (Ruku) will be back here. Don’t allow Ruto and Mbarire to use you and cause violence in Mbeere North,” he said.
Joining Gachagua at the event were Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K boss Eugene Wamalwa, DP leader Justin Muturi, and Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji. The united opposition is backing DP’s Newton Karish, who is competing against UDA’s Leonard Muriuki Muthende.
Kalonzo publicly endorsed Karish, revealing he had turned down Wiper aspirants to support the joint opposition candidate.
Last week, Gachagua wrote to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, accusing law enforcement of failing to arrest individuals linked to violence in the constituency. He notified authorities that he would be in Mbeere North from November 16 to 24 to campaign “in full exercise of his constitutional rights.”
