The battle for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat has officially kicked off, with the Devolution Empowerment Party, famously known as the BUS party, unveiling Newton Karis as its flag bearer in the highly anticipated by-election.

Speaking during a press briefing, party chairman Lenny Kivuti exuded confidence, stating that the party is not only ready for the Mbeere North contest but is also preparing to field candidates across the country come 2027.

“The BUS party will remain autonomous and will not merge with any other political party – not now, not ever, until Jesus comes,” Kivuti declared, setting the tone for a fierce political contest.

Kivuti emphasised that their focus is currently on strengthening the party’s grassroots structures, launching a mass membership registration drive, and intensifying political education across counties.

Backing Kivuti’s sentiments, former Meru Governor and senior party figure Kiraitu Murungi reiterated that the party’s priority is internal growth, not political coalitions.

“Our eyes are on 2027. We are not in a rush to join hands with anyone. Let others come to us,” he noted.

Newton Karis, the man chosen to carry the BUS party ticket, struck a confident tone, saying the party will emerge a winner.

“We are more than ready for this by-election. Let IEBC give us the date; we are hitting the ground running,” he said.

Karis is expected to face stiff competition from political giants and local powerhouses, including former MP Muriuki Njagagua, his brother Dr Murage Njagagua, Embu County Speaker Josiah Thiriku, philanthropist Jacob Ireri Mbao, who is deaf, Evurore MCA Duncan Mbui, and Konji Kwayo, among others.

The by-election is shaping up to be a political showdown, with major players eyeing the constituency as a litmus test of their influence.

Sources close to the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua hint that he may throw his weight behind a preferred candidate, though it’s still unclear whether he will support the BUS party or back a rival. Kenya Kwanza, under whose ticket the former MP Ruku was elected, is also expected to front a strong replacement.

Adding more political flavour to the race, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi, a son of Mbeere North, is also said to be crafting plans to field a candidate.

The seat was left vacant after Geoffrey Ruku was appointed the cabinet secretary in incharge of public service human capital development and special programs by President William Ruto.