SUPREMACY BATTLE:Three major camps clash for control of Mbeere North

Speaking when he drummed up support for UDA candidate in Ngunyumu in Evurore ward Mbeere North, Kindiki urged the people of Mbeere North constituency not to be swayed by the Opposition into voting for leaders who lack direct access to government resources. He said electing a government-aligned MP gives the constituency a strategic advantage in securing development projects.

"Should we stay in government or outside? w

Whoever is inside and whoever is outside, who will enjoy?"Kindiki questioned.

He vouched for UDA candidate Leonard Muriuki Muthende, saying he is the best placed to sustain the progress initiated by former MP Geoffrey Ruku, now the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service.

Meanwhile, the by-election has turned into a three-front political contest. Gachagua himself spent time campaigning in Muminji Ward to drum up support for DP Party candidate Newton Karish.Gachagua urged the people of Mbeere North to elect his candidate stating that it would wipe him and former Attorney General Justin Muturi tears after they were kicked out of government."Everybody in Kenya is looking on Mbeere North. It is time for the people of Mbeere North to take UDA home," said Gachagua.

At the same time, Chama Cha Kazi party leader Moses Kuria pitched camp in various parts of Evurore Ward, where he rallied support for CCK's  Duncan Mbui, further fragmenting the contest.

The presence of high-profile leaders backing different candidates has transformed the by-election into a battleground for political influence, with each camp framing the race as a test of regional strength and future relevance.

Kindiki cautioned that while the competition has intensified, residents must look beyond political noise and prioritise development, stability, and effective representation. He maintained that Muthende is the only candidate who can guarantee continuity in road construction, electricity expansion, water projects, and transparent bursary management.

"We have so many challenges in this region that needs government intervention. We have no problem with the other camp but the government is the one which will help us get water, roads and electricity. We have been marginalized for 60 years," Kindiki said.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire echoed this, arguing that electing an Opposition MP would slow down development and isolate the constituency from government support.

Muthende promised to ensure fair bursary distribution and to work with partners to establish a constituency education fund. He also criticised Gachagua for making personal remarks about his family, saying such politics have no place in Mbeere North.

CS Ruku accused Gachagua of engaging in conduct considered taboo in Mbeere culture and insisted that leadership must be grounded in respect and community values.

The by-election, slated for Thursday next week, will see Muthende face off against Karish and Mbui in a race now widely viewed as a test of influence between the UDA establishment, Gachagua’s faction, and Moses Kuria’s political camp.