DP, DEP Cry Foul Over Alleged UDA Vote Rigging Plot in Mbeere North

DP party leader Justin Muturi and DEP boss Lenny Kivuti, claimed that efforts were underway to register voters outside Embu County with the intention of ferrying them into Mbeere North on election day.

Speaking during a meeting with over 2,000 locals from Mbeere North at Kanyuambora, Kivuti warned that any attempts to subvert the will of the people would be met with stiff resistance. “We know each other in Mbeere North. Anybody planning to steal the election is ill-advised,” he said.

The DEP leader alleged that schemes were being orchestrated from Nairobi, where individuals were being registered under dubious circumstances. He vowed that vigilant residents would not allow such actions to go unchecked. “We are hearing they are planning from Nairobi people being registered to come and vote here. They will find us waiting and we will not allow them to vote since we know each other,” he added defiantly.

Kivuti emphasized the importance of a peaceful, credible electoral process and urged supporters to remain calm but alert. He reiterated that Mbeere North residents were ready to guard their democratic rights jealously.

Echoing Kivuti’s sentiments, DP leader Justin Muturi emphasized that any form of electoral malpractice would be confronted head-on. “Those planning to rig this election should know they are dialing the wrong number.We are very observant, and we want peaceful campaigns.”Muturi said.

Muturi stated that the United Opposition had put in place strong measures to monitor the election and ensure it reflects the will of the people. He described their candidate, Newton Karish, as the people's choice, whom the establishment fears because of his performance record.

Karish, who is flying the DP flag in the by-election, also addressed the issue, expressing confidence in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to deliver a free and fair election. “This is a litmus test for the IEBC. I believe they will conduct a credible exercise.We are equal to the task. I have confidence in IEBC’s capacity to manage this election properly” he said.

Meanwhile, the contest is shaping up to be a three-horse race, with Karish facing stiff competition from UDA’s Leonard Muthende, who enjoys the backing of Cabinet Secretary in charge of Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programs, Geoffrey Ruku and the government machinery.

Ruku has been combing the region, urging voters to align with the ruling party to ensure continued development. He is banking on government goodwill to swing the vote in Muthende’s favor.

On the other side of the triangle is Duncan Mbui, the Chama Cha Kazi (CCK) candidate backed by Moses Kuria. Mbui, a two-term Member of County Assembly, is leveraging his experience and strong roots in the populous Evurori Ward to build momentum.

Mbui has been presenting himself as the "compromise candidate," urging voters to elect someone with practical legislative experience rather than relying on party affiliations. He argues that Mbeere North needs a results-oriented leader, not political rhetoric.

With high-profile political figures investing heavily in the by-election, Mbeere North has become a battleground where national and local forces are colliding. The outcome is expected to have implications beyond the constituency, particularly in shaping future political alliances.