The Mbeere North by-election campaigns intensified this week as Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua traded barbs over the region’s development record.
The by-election, set to replace Geoffrey Ruku following his Cabinet appointment, will see United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wa Muthende face off against Democratic Party (DP) candidate Newton Karish.
Kindiki, campaigning for Wa Muthende in Kanyuambora, criticized Gachagua for resorting to insults instead of highlighting his achievements as Deputy President. In a pointed statement, Kindiki said:
“Ati unanitusi, mimi ni rika yako? Wewe ni kingpin for who? Omba kura wacha kuja kunitusi nyumbani. You are a small timer, I will deal with you. I advised you before you were impeached, hukuniskiza. Your injuries are self-inflicted.”
The DP leader fired back while supporting Karish at Kavengero and Ciangera, asserting that Mbeere North residents had already decided on their preferred candidate. Gachagua questioned the need for diverting billions to the region when basic services remain lacking, asking:
“Mimi nauliza Ruto na Kindiki, iko haja gani ya kumwaga nusu bilioni Mbeere na Wakenya wanateseka? Ati leo yuko Bunge, nyinyi Wambeere mtamsikia Kasongo kweli bungeni?”
The political showdown highlights the rising tensions between Kindiki and Gachagua, both influential figures in Mount Kenya East politics. Analysts suggest that the campaign rhetoric could significantly influence voter sentiments ahead of the by-election.
With both camps intensifying their campaigns, residents of Mbeere North are closely watching how the contest between Wa Muthende and Karish unfolds. Observers note that the election is not only a test of party loyalty but also a referendum on local development priorities in the region.
As the by-election approaches, all eyes remain on the candidates’ ability to convince voters with concrete development promises rather than political attacks, in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested race.
