Former Roots Party presidential running mate Justina Wamae has urged Mbeere North residents to prioritise leadership performance over humour when casting their votes in the upcoming by-elections.

She cautioned voters against being swayed by candidates’ comedic appeal.

In a post on X on Sunday, November 23, 2025, Wamae highlighted the popularity of Karis, noting that his humorous phrases, such as “Muthende mwi” and “Muthendeko”, have won him attention among voters.

“Voters in Mbeere North will definitely vote for Karis majorly due to his humour. Forgetting the fact that humour does not add any value to the role of a Member of the National Assembly, which is oversight, legislation and representation. And by the way, how has he performed as a sitting MCA? Ama haiwahusu?” Wamae asked.

She warned that relying on humour alone could backfire, pointing to similar experiences in Embu County.

“Karis will soon be a laughing stock, similar to the way the same Embu voters have made their Senator Mundigi a caricature, as they heartily share the joke that Senator Sir once said ‘Antony Njeru’ instead of ‘Attorney General’,” Wamae added.

Wamae further urged other aspirants to present themselves seriously on public platforms. She emphasised the need for candidates to demonstrate capability and a clear vision for the constituency.

“To Leonard Muthende, Duncan Mbui, Albert Njeru, Rev Isaac Ngiri, Reuben Kamathuu, Simon Waiharo, Daniel Ireri and Lawrence Ireri, take this opportunity of a political talk show on TV seriously and present yourself as the MNA the people of Mbeere North will never have in the 13th Parliament,” she said.

Wamae concluded by stressing the importance of focusing beyond campaign theatrics, reminding voters that leadership is about accountability and effective governance once in office.

“The envisaged outcome should be beyond campaigns. It should be about leading effectively after the position is won,” she said, urging voters to make informed decisions.

Mbeere North by-election

The Mbeere North by-election is scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025, and political activity in the constituency has intensified as the date approaches. Key national figures have pitched camp in the area, each rallying support for their preferred candidates as the race gains momentum.

Former Deputy President and DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua has been on the ground for the past weeks, holding a series of rallies and community engagements as he seeks to consolidate support for Newton Karish. His presence has energised his party’s base and signalled the high stakes attached to the contest.

At the same time, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has also been actively touring the constituency, mobilising residents to vote for Leonard Muthende, widely known as Leo, who is running on a UDA ticket. Kindiki’s efforts underscore the ruling party’s determination to secure victory in the hotly contested by-election.

With both camps intensifying their outreach, the Mbeere North race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political battles of the year.