Mbeere North has become a political battleground following MP Geoffrey Ruku’s appointment as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service by President William Ruto. His departure has triggered intense competition and surprising alliances.

In an unexpected move, former rivals Justin Muturi (Democratic Party leader) and Lenny Kivuti (Devolution Empowerment Party chair) have united to support Mumenji Ward MCA Newton Karish.

Notable alliance

During a joint meeting in Mbeere South, they announced Karish would run on a DP ticket, the same party under which Ruku was elected in 2022. In exchange, Muturi pledged to back Kivuti’s 2027 gubernatorial bid.

This alliance is particularly notable as Muturi supported Kenya Kwanza in 2022, while Kivuti backed Azimio’s Raila Odinga.

Their unity faces strong opposition from Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who supports Evurore MCA Duncan Mbui. Mukunji recently led a delegation to meet former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Wamunyoro, Nyeri County.

Serious challenge

Sources reveal Gachagua endorsed Mbui and hinted his upcoming political party might field a candidate in the race. With Evurore the constituency’s most vote-rich ward, Mbui’s candidacy poses a serious challenge.

Political analysts suggest a compromise candidate may emerge to prevent vote-splitting among Gachagua, Muturi, and Kivuti supporters, though each leader currently backs different candidates.

Complicating matters further, Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku has entered the race and held talks with Ruku, suggesting the outgoing MP might secretly support him.

Former MP

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire also met with Ruku the same day, interpreted as a move to influence the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. Either Thiriku or former Embu Speaker Kariuki Mate could become UDA’s candidate, depending on Ruku and Mbarire’s endorsements.

Former MP Muriuki Njagagua is seeking to reclaim his seat after two previous terms. His brother, Dr Murage Njagagua, a University of Nairobi lecturer, is also running, creating an intriguing sibling rivalry.

Other candidates

Other candidates include Jacob Ireri Mbao, a hearing-impaired philanthropist known for community development work who aims to become the region’s first MP with a hearing disability, along with grassroots contenders Konji Kwayo and Patricio Njiru.

With campaigns yet to officially begin, this by-election will test the influence of veteran politicians and serve as a barometer for Kenya Kwanza’s cohesion in Mt Kenya East. The winner could become a significant political player ahead of the 2027 general election.