Newly elected Mbeere North Member of Parliament (MP) Leo Wamuthende Njeru pledged unwavering commitment to transparency and robust oversight, emphasising stewardship over public funds and fulfilment of campaign promises.

The address, delivered just two days after his swearing-in, marked a pivotal moment for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) lawmaker, who secured victory in the contentious November 27 by-election amid a bruising contest between ruling party factions.

Fierce by-election contest

Muthende’s path to Parliament was forged in a tightly contested race, where he clinched 15,802 votes against his closest rival, Newton Kariuki (Karish) of the Democratic Party, who garnered 15,308.

The polls, overshadowed by rivalries between Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s UDA and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party, drew national attention.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku had rallied support for Muthende, declaring on November 10 that “the people of Mbeere North have already made a decision that the candidate we are going to vote for as the next MP is Leo wa Muthende.”

Following his win, two voters filed a petition at the Embu High Court challenging the outcome over alleged inconsistencies in his name, which UDA dismissed, hailing the results as an endorsement of their development agenda.

Commitment to service and accountability

In his parliamentary debut, Muthende struck a tone of gratitude and resolve. “I stand here humbled, deeply honoured to have been elected as MP for Mbeere North Constituency. It was not easy, but I thank God for the opportunity to serve the people of Mbeere,” he began.

He quickly turned to his mandate, stating, “I made promises, and I will stay focused on leading you to achieve the goals we set together, one being the bursaries and legislation. As you can see, I am here today, ready to serve you and provide oversight, even over the national government CDF.”

Underscoring fiscal accountability, he vowed to be a good steward and ensure that every shilling is spent well. “I will be a good steward and ensure that every shilling is spent well.”

He credited his constituents’ resilience, saying, “I want to thank the people of Mbeere again for sustaining a good campaign despite the provocation from the opposition, who left a trail of insults and injuries. But I say we stood firm, and I stand here as a testament to a peaceful people who are ready to be served and are committed to staying within government.”

Muthende’s vows come as Mbeere North grapples with persistent challenges such as poor roads, water scarcity, and power outages, issues that were largely sidelined during the heated campaigns.

Earlier, during his UDA nomination acceptance on September 6, he had pledged unity: “This unity provides a solid foundation for our campaign. I promise to collaborate with all stakeholders to deliver meaningful development for Mbeere North.”