Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka energised supporters at Kabubua Market in Mbeere North on Sunday, November 16, 2025, forecasting a decisive victory for Democratic Party (DP) candidate Newton Karish in the upcoming by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025.

Speaking from atop a vehicle, on November 16, 2025, Musyoka hailed the grassroots enthusiasm as a statement of unprompted support against the ruling establishment.

“Kabubua Market leo mmeonyesha nguvu ya wananchi bila kusukumwa. Mbeere North mko tayari kwa Operation Funga Viosks, mko clear na #WANTAM, na mko committed ku Komboa Kenya,” he declared, emphasising the readiness of residents to back a movement aimed at “saving Kenya.”

Musyoka further rallied the crowd with a prediction, stating, “Na kwa tarehe 27 November 2025, by 8AM, mtaonyesha dunia vile mnaamua mambo kwa kumchagua Newton Karish overwhelmingly kama MP wenu,” underscoring confidence in a landslide win.

Also watch: Muturi warns Ruto to rein in Kenya Kwanza chaos ahead of Mbeere North by-election.

Opposition frames by-election as critical contest

Despite a reported heavy police presence, Musyoka praised residents for standing firm. “In spite of the heavy police presence, the people of Mbeere North refused to be intimidated. You stood your ground. You reminded the whole country what #WANTAM really means,” he said.

He framed the by-election as a crucial step in a broader political struggle: “You have made it clear that on November 27, 2025, you will lead from the front with Operation Funga Viosks and send Newton Karish to Parliament as your MP.” Musyoka also called for unity beyond the vote: “Together, step by step, tutakomboa Kenya.”

Meanwhile, Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua positioned the by-election as a contest between President William Ruto, Governor Cecily Mbarire’s candidate, and Mbeere residents. Speaking at a church service on the same day, Gachagua said, “The contest is between Kasongo and Mbarire on one side and the people of Mbeere on the other side. Who will win? The contest is simple. Their candidate (Muthende) is being fronted by them. He has no vote here in Mbeere, so I am wondering how they expect you to vote for him. How can people vote for someone who can’t even cast a vote for himself?”

Campaign Tensions and Allegations

Gachagua recalled historical defiance in the constituency, referencing Kipiriri voters’ rejection of President Moi’s candidate in 1994. He criticised Mbarire for her absence from the area, stating, “Mbarire should respect the people and desist from issuing intimidations. For three years, she has never set foot in Mbeere, only to bring them a candidate now. You dare say that. We don’t want to disrespect these people. They might be of low income, but nonetheless they deserve their dignity.”

Ahead of IEBC clearance, Karish reported a plot to disrupt the rally, claiming law enforcement had occupied the Kanyuombora field.

“As we stand here, police have occupied the field we intend to use for our rally,” he said, accusing the governor of involvement and alleging government handouts to youths. “Ironically, yesterday, the governor went out to write a statement that we intend to disrupt our own rally. How can we be the ones stopping our own rally?”

The event highlighted a charged campaign atmosphere as Mbeere North voters prepare to cast their ballots in a tightly watched by-election.