Geoffrey Ruku, the former Mbeere North Member of Parliament and current Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku has defended United Democratic Alliance Party candidate for the Mbeere North minipoll Leo Wamuthende.

Speaking on Saturday, November 24, 2025, Ruku said Wamuthende is as white as snow and unfairly targeted by political rivals.

Ruku says Wamuthende is clean

He rubbished claims that Wamuthende was involved in a multimillion-shilling scandal at Kenyatta National Hospital, insisting the accusations were driven by campaign propaganda aimed at damaging his public image.

“Anyone who knows Muthende understands he is a product of sweat and sacrifice; he did not inherit wealth or privilege, he built everything step by step, and that is why these accusations cannot stand,” Ruku has said while addressing supporters.

The Cabinet Secretary described Wamuthende as a disciplined and hardworking leader who rose through determination and service, warning voters to be cautious of what he termed as character assassination tactics.

However, the defence came as Democratic Party candidate Newton Karish launched a scathing attack against Wamuthende during a charged rally attended by Democracy for Citizens’ Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua.

Karish undresses Wamuthende

“I don’t have a problem with Wamuthende. Do you know Wamuthende? The difference between me and Wamuthende is that he is a thief,” Karish has told the crowd, sparking loud reactions.

“A person who ate money meant for an oxygen machine at Kenyatta National Hospital, kids and mothers are dying,” Karish has said, accusing his rival of betraying public trust.

The explosive remarks have heightened political tension in Mbeere North, with residents now caught between sharp allegations and firm denials as the by-election campaign enters its decisive phase.

Observers say the exchange reflects a wider pattern of aggressive rhetoric, raising concerns about the direction of the race and the growing focus on personal attacks instead of policy-driven debate.

As both camps dig in, attention now shifts to how voters will interpret the clash of narratives ahead of the critical minipoll date.