Gachagua explains why he is camping in Mbeere North amid multiple by-elections
By Luke Oluoch, November 22, 2025Democracy for Citizens Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua has explained why he chose to pitch camp in Mbeere North and not take his campaign to other regions with upcoming by-elections.
Speaking to Embu TikTokers on Saturday, November 22, 2025, Gachagua opined that his prolonged stay in Mbeere has been necessitated by an important assurance he had to deliver to the people of the region.
“I had to come. Karish has many supporters, but there has been government intimidation; many were saying there is no need to vote, claiming the government would steal the vote. When I learned of that and gave that assurance, everyone is now willing to go and vote,” he stated.
“I came here because these are my people. As a responsible leader, I answered the call, and I assured them that we have plans to protect their votes,” he stated.
The DCP boss decried how the race has been rendered transactional by the rampant dishing out in the constituency.
According to him, the government has used up to Ksh600 million in the campaign so far, funds he claimed are meant for capitation and other important government projects.
Gachagua added that the residents have promised to eat the money but vote for the opposition candidate on voting day.
Ultimate decision
He added that the ball now rests on their court, as they seek to preserve their dignity and repeat history by rejecting a candidate backed by the government.
“The ultimate decision lies with the people of Mbeere North. I cannot force my will on them. I had done what I could by explaining to them what I know and what we have seen. The remaining decision is theirs now, but in my view, this community will benefit from Karish’s leadership,” he stated.
The much-awaited by-election pits United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard wa Muthende against Newton Ndwiga Karish of DP.