Kirinyaga leaders allied to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) have celebrated the party’s victory in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, describing the outcome as a strong indication that the political tide in the Mt Kenya region is shifting ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Kerugoya while celebrating the victory of DCP candidate Sammy Kamau Waweru, Kerugoya Ward Member of County Assembly Eric Muchina said the by-election had demonstrated that voters remained determined to protect the integrity of their votes despite what he termed intense political pressure.

“The people of Ol Kalou protected their votes. The IEBC must now rebuild public confidence and ensure future elections are conducted in a manner that inspires trust among Kenyans,” Muchina said.

The MCA argued that the by-election had become a litmus test of political influence in the Mt Kenya region, maintaining that the victory showed growing support for DCP and should not be interpreted as a reflection of President William Ruto’s popularity in the region.

“The Mt Kenya region has already detached itself from President Ruto, and the Ol Kalou results have demonstrated that. Despite reports of foodstuffs, shoes, gas cylinders and even engine-powered boats being distributed during the campaign, the people still voted for DCP. The votes the UDA candidate received were largely because he is our son,” he added.

Leaders fault CS Ruku over divisive remarks

Muchina also took issue with Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku, accusing him of advancing a political agenda aimed at splitting the Mt Kenya region.

According to the MCA, Ruku has been championing the creation of a “Mt Kenya East” political bloc comprising Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Embu counties, separate from the wider Mt Kenya region.

“We reject attempts to divide the Mt Kenya region for political convenience. Our region has always stood together, and leaders should focus on uniting rather than creating unnecessary divisions,” Muchina said.

He further dismissed the Cabinet Secretary’s political remarks, insisting that Ruku no longer commands significant political influence in the region.

“We do not recognise CS Ruku’s political pronouncements. He can keep talking, but the people of Mt Kenya are no longer listening to him,” he said.

Muchina maintained that as a Cabinet Secretary appointed to serve in the national government, Ruku should concentrate on his constitutional mandate instead of engaging in regional political campaigns.

“He serves the entire country as a cabinet secretary. He does not speak on behalf of the political interests of the Mt Kenya region,” he added.

The DCP leaders said the Ol Kalou by-election outcome had strengthened the party’s confidence ahead of the 2027 general election, arguing that it reflects changing political dynamics across the Mt Kenya region.