Njeru formally announced his exit from the race during a press briefing in Embu town on Saturday 7th February 2026, flanked by CCK party leader Moses Kuria and Mbeere North Member of Parliament Leonard Wamuthende. In his address, Njeru described the decision as a strategic sacrifice aimed at accelerating development in Evurore Ward.

He argued that the ward stood to gain more by electing a leader aligned with the national government, maintaining that political proximity to power remains a key determinant of development outcomes at the grassroots. Njeru pledged to throw his full weight behind the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Duncan Muratia, saying the move offered the most viable pathway to address long-standing socio-economic challenges facing residents.

“This is not about stepping aside because of weakness. It is a strategic decision made in the best interests of the people of Evurore,” Njeru said.

CCK party leader Moses Kuria backed the decision, framing it within a broader regional strategy. Kuria called for political unity across the Mount Kenya region, urging leaders to consolidate support behind President William Ruto’s administration.

According to Kuria, regions that speak with one political voice are better positioned to negotiate for national resources, a lesson he said Mount Kenya could no longer afford to ignore.

“You cannot sit in Opposition and expect development. Unity is not a favour to anyone; it is a strategy,” said.

MP Leonard Wamuthende welcomed Njeru’s endorsement, terming it a major boost for the UDA campaign in Evurore. He predicted a decisive win for the ruling party candidate and hinted that more candidates and political figures were expected to defect to UDA as the campaign period enters its final stretch.

The Evurore Ward by-election, alongside that of the neighbouring Muminji Ward, is scheduled for February 26. Both seats fell vacant after the former Members of County Assembly resigned to contest the Mbeere North parliamentary by-election held on November 27, 2025.

Despite the momentum shifting toward UDA, Opposition forces are intensifying their efforts to counter the ruling party’s growing influence. The contest has drawn the involvement of heavyweight political figures, including Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP) leader Lenny Kivuti and Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi, both of whom hail from Evurore Ward.

The two leaders are banking on their local roots and political networks to rally support for DP candidate Albert Kigoro. Their strategy appears focused on consolidating the Evurore vote as a bulwark against UDA’s expanding dominance.

In a calculated move, Muturi recently held talks with former Evurore MCA Duncan Mbui, who unsuccessfully contested the Mbeere North parliamentary seat in the recent by-election, losing to Leonard Wamuthende. Political observers interpret the engagement as an attempt to tap into Mbui’s grassroots networks and deep understanding of the ward’s political dynamics, given his recent tenure and influence.

As campaigns gather pace, Evurore Ward has emerged as a key political battleground, with shifting alliances, high-level endorsements, and strategic withdrawals underscoring the high stakes involved. The outcome of the by-election is expected not only to shape local leadership but also to signal broader political trends within Mbeere North and the wider Mount Kenya region.

Wa Muthende had pledged during the campaigns that his administration would eliminate tuition fees in day secondary schools to ensure all learners in the constituency access education without financial barriers.

The MP officially launched the programme on Friday 6th, February 2026 while addressing school heads, parents and education stakeholders at Karerema market in Evurore Ward.

To kick-start the initiative, Wa Muthende disbursed cheques amounting to over KSh500,000 to principals of day secondary schools drawn from across the constituency.

He said the programme targets all the 46 day secondary schools in Mbeere North, describing it as a deliberate step towards achieving universal basic education.

“We want children of Mbeere North to learn without the fear of being sent home for school fees. This will also allow parents to redirect their limited resources to other basic needs,” the MP said.

Wa Muthende underscored the central role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, particularly in the semi-arid Mbeere North region where livelihoods are often threatened by unfavourable climatic conditions.

“Our area does not enjoy the same agricultural potential as other regions. Education therefore remains the most reliable pathway out of intergenerational poverty,” he said.

Beyond easing the financial burden on parents, the MP said the initiative is expected to boost enrolment and retention by ensuring no learner stays out of school or drops out due to lack of fees.

He further announced that the programme will be complemented by a school feeding initiative to provide free lunch to learners, a move aimed at improving attendance and learning outcomes.

In an effort to raise academic performance, Wa Muthende also revealed plans to introduce incentives for top-performing students and teachers, including cash rewards and sponsored educational trips.

“Our focus is not only access but also quality. We want to see improved results and ensure that at least 60 per cent of our students qualify for university admission,” he said.

Parents and school administrators welcomed the initiative, terming it a major boost to education access in the constituency.

Catherine Wangari, a parent said the programme had lifted a huge burden off families, noting that parents can now concentrate on ensuring their children attend school consistently.

St Andrew's Ngoche Secondary School Principal Nahashon Njeru said the initiative will stabilise school finances and end the practice of sending learners home over unpaid fees, allowing schools to focus on delivering quality education.

Ruku said Mt Kenya East comprising Kirinyaga, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru and Isiolo counties, share common development priorities that require a coordinated approach to political participation and national dialogue.

Speaking at Jesus Christ Power of Resurrection Ministries in Isiolo County, the CS said regions that organise around shared interests are better placed to articulate their needs and participate effectively in leadership negotiations and development planning.

“Our focus is on internal cohesion and constructive engagement. Unity allows regions to speak clearly on issues that matter to their people, while remaining part of the larger national conversation,” Ruku said.

He noted that Mt Kenya East has historically played a key role in Mt Kenya politics and continues to contribute to the region’s overall political strength, adding that coordinated decision-making would help safeguard its long-term interests.

Ruku said residents of the region are increasingly keen to make informed and independent political choices that align with their development priorities, while maintaining cooperation with other Mt Kenya regions.

He pointed to the elevation of Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who hails from Mt Kenya East, as an indication of the region’s growing presence in national leadership.

“As Mt Kenya East, we are committed to working together and engaging responsibly with other regions for the common good,” he said.

On the humanitarian front, Ruku addressed the ongoing drought and food insecurity affecting parts of the country, assuring residents that the government remains committed to ensuring no Kenyan goes hungry.

He said the government has set aside adequate resources for the purchase and distribution of relief food, noting that KSh6 billion has already been spent to support affected households and livestock.

The CS warned against the diversion or misuse of relief supplies, saying firm action would be taken against anyone found undermining the programme.

He also called on development partners, faith-based organisations and other stakeholders to support government efforts, saying collaboration remains critical in addressing food insecurity.

On security, Ruku reiterated the government’s commitment to ending cattle rustling, warning that the practice would no longer be tolerated and urging those involved to abandon the vice.

Leaders accompanying the CS maintained that they will not relent in ensuring Mt Kenya East political identity and interests are safeguarded for benefit of their people.

Munuve further called upon residents of his constituency to rally behind Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka's presidential bid. He expressed optimism that the Wiper Democratic Movement party boss stands a stronger chance than ever before in being elected the sixth President of Kenya.

He was speaking at Kimu village in Kyuso Ward during the funeral ceremony of the late Madam Agnes Kalekye.

Speaking during a public forum in Ndia, Kirinyaga County, Ruku said the so-called United Opposition is engaging in tired public relations stunts designed to grab headlines rather than offer leadership to Kenyans. He argued that the frequent press conferences and staged confrontations betray a coalition more interested in theatrics than solutions.

Ruku likened the opposition’s conduct to a football team attempting to lobby the referee before kickoff instead of training, fixing tactics, and fielding a solid squad. “When you spend all your time crying foul before the match even starts, you are admitting you don’t trust your own game,” he said.

According to the CS, Kenyans are exhausted by empty rhetoric, manufactured outrage, and recycled accusations that offer no relief to households struggling with the cost of living. He said politics should be about ideas and delivery, not perpetual complaints.

Ruku challenged the opposition to stop hiding behind institutions and instead present a clear and convincing manifesto to the people. He said Kenyans want to hear concrete proposals on job creation, healthcare, education, corruption, and lowering the cost of living.

He noted that real politics is anchored in engaging voters directly and articulating practical solutions, not seeking publicity through confrontations with constitutional offices. “Leadership is about vision, not volume,” Ruku remarked.

The CS further questioned the opposition’s readiness to govern, pointing to its failure to rally behind a single, credible presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 General Election. He said the continued ambiguity only exposes deep divisions within the coalition.

Ruku argued that finger-pointing and blame-shifting are being used as convenient scapegoats to mask a lack of vision and internal cohesion. “You cannot ask Kenyans to trust you with power when you cannot even organize yourselves,” he said.

He maintained that President William Ruto’s administration remains focused on delivery, citing ongoing reforms and development programmes aimed at uplifting ordinary Kenyans despite economic headwinds.

Ruku said the government welcomes issue-based competition but will not be distracted by what he termed as political theater meant to derail progress. He urged leaders to rise above propaganda and engage in mature, solution-driven discourse.

The CS emphasized that democracy thrives when voters are presented with clear choices grounded in policy, integrity, and competence, not fear-mongering and manufactured crises.

Speaking during a public engagement in Embu County on Wednesday, Nyoro brushed off the ministry’s explanation, saying uncertainty over costs should not be used as an excuse to delay a policy that directly affects millions of Kenyan families.

The legislator proposed a simple but impactful fix: raising the annual capitation for each secondary school student from the current Ksh 22,000 to Ksh 31,000. He said the adjustment would immediately ease financial pressure on public schools.

Nyoro explained that the proposed KSh 9,000 increase per learner would be carefully apportioned to address real challenges on the ground. Of this, KSh 6,000 would go toward tuition, while Ksh 3,000 would support Board of Management teachers and day-to-day school operations.

To bankroll the plan, the MP laid out a three-pronged funding strategy that he described as both realistic and fair. First, he suggested cutting KSh 30 million from each MP’s constituency allocation.

According to Nyoro, this single move could raise about KSh 10 billion nationally. He added that county governments could contribute a similar amount by pooling funds from their bursary programmes.

The national government, he said, would then top up the fund with another KSh 10 billion, creating a KSh 30 billion annual kitty dedicated solely to strengthening secondary education across the country.

Nyoro did not stop at education. He launched a fierce attack on the government’s handling of public asset sales, particularly the proposed sale of its Safaricom shares, questioning the secrecy surrounding the process.

He challenged the Executive for seemingly speaking on behalf of potential buyers instead of Kenyans, arguing that an open and competitive international sale could generate as much as KSh 350 billion for the exchequer.

The MP described the ongoing discussions as opaque and misguided, warning that public wealth was at risk of being disposed of through backroom deals rather than transparent processes.

In a striking remark, Nyoro threatened to release contact details of Vodafone and Vodacom directors, urging Kenyans to directly question them about their role in the Safaricom share talks.

He also raised concerns over the proposed sale of Kenya Pipeline Company shares, claiming that a so-called Ugandan investor linked to the deal is actually a Kenyan, a move he said points to self-interest overriding public good.

Addressing young political aspirants, Nyoro lamented what he called a leadership deficit in the country. He observed that many elected leaders spend their first years in office confused about their mandate instead of delivering development.

He criticized leaders who seek power before forming a clear agenda, describing it as a costly mistake for citizens. Nyoro concluded by linking the education funding stalemate and controversial asset sales to a deeper governance problem that demands transparency, preparedness, and genuine accountability.

The residents raised the alarm during a public baraza held at Bondoni in Makima on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 where they claimed the ADR process initiated by the government as a peaceful and inclusive solution was facing sabotage after the Ngome Council reportedly withdrew from the talks led by a government-appointed mediator. The move, they said, cast serious doubt on the council’s commitment to resolving the matter amicably.

Led by Makima Ward MCA and settlement scheme beneficiary Philip Nzangi, the residents described the withdrawal as an act of bad faith meant to derail efforts to uncover the truth surrounding land subdivision and allocation. Nzangi said families living on the land had endured years of uncertainty marked by endless delays, shifting positions, and broken promises, leaving their future hanging in the balance.

“The decision to walk away from dialogue raises serious questions. It shows there are people uncomfortable with transparency and accountability,” said Nzangi, adding that some political leaders were allegedly hiding behind the Ngome Council of Elders to shield personal and political interests at the expense of genuine residents.

According to leaders who addressed the meeting, the subdivision process was riddled with irregularities that shortchanged long-term occupants who have lived on the land for decades. They argued that ADR was the only credible platform to lay bare these injustices and deliver lasting justice.

“We are tired of the zigzags they are taking us through. Everything must be placed on the table so the truth can come out,” Nzangi said, calling on all parties to return to the negotiating table with honesty and goodwill.

His remarks were echoed by Sila Mwaniki, the chairperson of the Mwea Council of Elders, who said residents were united and determined to protect what they consider both ancestral and settlement land. Mwaniki questioned why the Ngome Council would abandon talks if it had nothing to hide, saying the move pointed to fear of scrutiny over alleged irregularities.

“Justice cannot be achieved by walking away. It requires open dialogue and the courage to confront past mistakes,” Mwaniki said.

Another resident, Shadrack Kilonzo, said families had lived on the disputed land for many years and questioned where those calling for evictions expected them to relocate.

“Our demand is simple,,fairness, recognition of our long occupation, and a transparent process that will finally brings closure to this decades-old dispute," said Kilonzo.

Ruku was reacting to chaotic scenes witnessed on Sunday during a church service in Nyeri attended by Gachagua, where disorder erupted, forcing police to lob teargas inside the church causing congregants to flee.

The CS claimed the incident was not accidental, alleging that Gachagua moves with armed goons who deliberately cause disruptions at meetings and church services he attends in order to attract sympathy and incite public anger against the government.

“This is the same pattern we witnessed during the Mbeere North by-election campaigns, where his goons attacked an innocent youth and broke his leg,” Ruku said. “The youth, identified as Fredrick, sustained a broken leg during a church service at Karangare that the former Deputy President was attending with his goons.”

Ruku cautioned Kenyans against falling for what he termed “well-organized schemes” designed to manufacture victimhood, spread hatred, and mislead the public about the true state of affairs within government. He warned that the government will not tolerate acts of lawlessness disguised as political victimization, adding that places of worship should never be turned into arenas for political drama.

The CS further noted that the recent chaos mirrors what he described as a pattern of violence linked to Gachagua’s political camp. 

He said intimidation and violence have no place in Kenya’s democratic space and urged leaders to stop using youths to advance personal political interests through fear and chaos.

Turning to regional politics, Ruku maintained that the Mt Kenya region remains firmly within government and dismissed claims that the region could shift its political allegiance. He declared Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki the undisputed Mt Kenya kingpin, saying he continues to provide strong and effective leadership for the region from within government.

Ruku urged residents of Mt Kenya Central and Mt Kenya West to remain loyal to the government, noting that with Kindiki at the heart of power, the region is well positioned to benefit from development projects. He warned that any attempts to lure the region into opposing the government would only derail development and deny residents essential services and opportunities.

The CS also accused Gachagua of political arrogance, urging him to respect the Deputy President and acknowledge the long-standing unity between Mt Kenya East, Central, and West. He emphasized that Mt Kenya East has consistently stood with the rest of the region and deserves mutual respect and recognition in national leadership.

Ruku further weighed in on the broader Mt Kenya regional debate, stating that Mt Kenya East also played a critical role in the struggle for independence and should not be sidelined. He said it was wrong for Mt Kenya West and Central to behave as though they were the only regions that sacrificed for the country’s freedom. He called for unity and mutual respect within the wider Mt Kenya region, urging leaders from the West to support the East, especially now that the Deputy President hails from Mt Kenya East.

Ruku maintained that the government remains firmly on course in delivering its mandate, adding that political propaganda and hostility would not derail its development agenda.

Chuka Igambang’ombe MP Patrick Munene echoed Ruku’s sentiments, describing the Nyeri church incident as a “well-scripted drama” by Gachagua and dismissing claims that police targeted him. Munene, however, condemned the use of teargas in a church, terming it a blatant act of disrespect to a place of worship and an affront to the dignity of religious institutions.

Tigania East MP Mpuri Apuri also condemned the Nyeri incident, saying Kenyans should not be subjected to what he termed “politics of conmanship” by selfish individuals.

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‎Dr Musyoka said that when he was vice president, he rejected pressure by a permanent secretary to have the road tarmacked from Tseikuru rather than Mwingi where it had reached.

‎"As a selfless leader, when I was vice president, PS Kamau was in charge of roads. He told me, I have money for 21km. Do you want us to start work in Tseikuru?

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‎I told him there is no need of people to come all the way from Mwingi till they reach Twimyua under dust. I said no way. Let it start from Mwingi coming to this direction. It will reach Tseikuru when it will. It is now time", said Musyoka.

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‎The former VP said the road has faced stoppages and revivals as interests of successive governments change. This has caused completion to stall despite having been under construction for years. "By now this road should have passed Maua, Isiolo linking up to Ethiopia", he said.

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‎Kalonzo told residents to vote out President William Ruto government in favour of his United Opposition alliance during the upcoming 2027 general elections. He was speaking during the burial of mother of his personal assistant James Mutemi Matiki in Matili Village, Ngaaie, Kyuso Ward.

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‎Other leaders present were DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa, Kitui Governor Dr Julius Malombe, Mwingi North MP Paul Nzengu, and other local and national government officials.

The renewed political tension follows the clearance of candidates by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), a move that has officially set the stage for by-elections that are already attracting intense political interest.

The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) moved swiftly to assert its dominance after its candidates  Duncan Muratia Nyaga for Evurore Ward and Peterson Njeru Njiru for Muminji Ward  were cleared to contest in the forthcoming polls.

The return of nomination papers by the UDA candidates was marked by a show of political strength, as senior Kenya Kwanza leaders accompanied them in a symbolic procession for IEBC clearance.

The event attracted top leaders including Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, and Mbeere North MP Leo wa Muthende and Embu woman representative Pamela Njoki Njeru Double N, signaling the government’s determination to tighten its grip on the constituency.

Their presence underscored the strategic importance the ruling coalition has attached to the ward contests, viewing them as a continuation of the recently concluded parliamentary by-election.

On the opposition side, the Democratic Party (DP) cleared Albert Kigoro to contest the Evurore Ward seat, while the Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP) fielded Ngari Boniface Kariuki in Muminji Ward, setting up direct contests with the UDA candidates.

The unfolding scenario now presents a head-to-head political duel between the government and opposition forces, each keen to assert relevance and control at the grassroots level.

Addressing the press after the clearance exercise, CS Ruku launched a sharp attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) of political retreat.

Ruku expressed disappointment that DCP failed to field candidates in both wards, claiming the move was driven by fear of another defeat following Gachagua’s loss in the recent parliamentary by-election. “I am disappointed that DCP has no candidate in these by-elections yet Gachagua claims he commands Mt Kenya support,” Ruku said.

He expressed confidence that UDA would emerge victorious, arguing that residents of Evurore and Muminji are eager to align with the government in order to benefit from development and access to national resources.

Governor Cecily Mbarire echoed the confidence, dismissing the opposition as no threat and vowing that UDA would replicate its parliamentary by-election success in the ward contests.

She said the ruling party would traverse the two wards in search of votes, adding that the strategy that delivered victory in the parliamentary by-election would once again work in their favor.

MP Leo wa Muthende, fresh from his parliamentary win, urged the opposition to shelve their ambitions, insisting that the political ground was already settled.

“We will win against Wamunyoro. He is not a threat at all,” Muthende said.

The by-elections also carry symbolic weight for opposition heavyweights Justin Muturi of the DP and Kivuti of the DEP, both hailing from Evurore Ward, the most populous ward in Mbeere North Constituency.

Having lost the parliamentary by-election to the government, the two leaders now face another test of their grassroots popularity as their parties split candidates between Evurore and Muminji wards.

As campaigns gather pace, the ward by-elections are shaping up to be more than just local contests, increasingly becoming a political litmus test that will define dominance, loyalty, and future influence in post-by-election Mbeere North politics.

 The simmering supremacy war pitting Dr Malombe, on one hand, and a section of MCAs led by Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo, on the other, had threatened to rock the county, frustrate and hold captive the county Executive in denying Kitui people development.

But in turn of events, the Speaker owned up, apologised to the Governor for the misunderstanding and promised to work together and build strong relationships, increasing trust for the county’s development and prosperity.

Speaking earlier, Kinengo gave assurance that within 45 days, the Assembly shall vet and approve the appointments of Agnes Mulewa, Timothy Muange and Christopher Okumu as substantive office bearers for county secretary, county attorney and county public service board secretary respectively.

He called for a ceasefire, saying the infighting and chest thumping had consequences that included unredeemable loss.

Mulewa, Muange and Okumo appeared before the appointment panel chaired by the Speaker at the assembly chambers where they were interviewed and told to wait for the approval by the plenary house sitting.

Ms Mulewa told the committee comprising the assembly’s Majority Leader Harrison Maluki (Migwani ward MCA), Minority Leader, Jeremiah Mutua (Nguni ward MCA) and the acting clerk Chris Mwangangi that her experience was borne out of her working during the former Governor Charity Ngilu and now the incumbent Malombe.

"I had an opportunity to transit from one government to the other and I can give assurance that there is not an easy transition. Leaders have got different visions and the way they conduct their business is also different,” the acting county secretary said. 

Mulewa, a former lecturer at the Southern Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) said she knows and believes that the office of the county secretary is crucial on matters of transition.

“Even if the county secretary was not to transit to the other incoming county government, by virtue of being in that office, you are obligated to chair functions and meetings of both governor-elect and the out-going,” she told the committee.

Mulewa said the holder of the county secretary is required to perform his or her duties diligently, to ensure that he or she gives the outgoing and incoming governor necessary support that needed and furnish the incoming governor with the state of the public service so that it will be easy for the governor to get along and proceed.

She said lack of clear transition was to blame for continuity of vibrant and sustainable programmes undertaken by outgoing governments which the incoming governments abandon resulting in waste of public funds.

“If this committee finds me suitable and endorses me and eventually appoints me substantively, I will be able to claim my role, act professionally without any prejudice", Mulewa said.

The attacks which left MCA Mutua nursing injuries took place in Nuu ward, Mwingi Central sub county during the burial of area MCA Judith Wanza's late mother. "We need to have politics of development and peace. Political differences should not result to political violence.  It is good that leaders respect each other's opinion. They need to coexist", said the Kitui County Speaker.

Katisya accused Kitui County Agriculture CECM Stephen Mbaya Kimwele for attacks meted out on the young Nguni MCA Jeremiah Mutua. "If a minister walks around with goons whom he has hired and those goons attack the MCA, the MCA is unhappy and he may also choose to react", he explained.

Hon Katisya has also called for tolerance and respect among leaders in the county government. He also accused the Agriculture CECM of insulting Mwingi Central MP Dr Gedion Mulyungi.  He  has called upon police to provide security to all ward representatives.

Former Kitui East MP Kiema Kilonzo.

The former Kitui East MP said MP Mbai falsely accused him of receiving a bribe from a Chinese company to carry out coal mining in his constituency. 

Kilonzo, a former Kenya's ambassador to Turkey and Uganda has  through a Nairobi law firm demanded immediate withdrawal of the defamatory statements. 

He also wants MP Mbai to issue a public apology failure to which his lawyer,  Tom,  O. K'opere of T.O. K'opere & Co. Advocates will take a legal action against Hon Mbai at the lapse of 14 days. 

Through a demand letter dated January 19,  2026 titled "Defamatory Statements Concerning Ambassador Kiema Kilonzo", the lawyer instructed MP Mbai to withdraw and apologise to his client via a newspaper as well as across the social media platforms circulating in Ukambani.

Further, MP Mbai was instructed to give an undertaking not to repeat or publish any further defamatory statements or allegations against former MP. Kiema Kilonzo. Mbai is additionally required to pay damages for alleged injury to former MP Kilonzo's reputation.

He was given 14 days to comply failure to which defamation proceedings will be instituted without further notice and at his own costs.

The lawyers said MP Mbai's remarks gravely injured former MP Kilonzo's credibility and standing exposing him to public ridicule and contempt both in Kenya and abroad. The letter claims that on January 5, 2026, Mbai falsely and maliciously spoke, published and broadcast words injurious to Kilonzo at Nzombe Market in Kitui East Constituency.

Mbeere North by-election materials secured at Embu High Court ahead of petition hearing. MWINGI TIMES |Brian Musyoka

On Tuesday, January 20, 2025, ballot boxes and other sensitive election equipment were moved from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) offices in Embu town to a designated secure facility within the High Court compound. The move is intended to preserve the materials as potential evidence should the court order a scrutiny or recount.

The tightly controlled operation was supervised by Resident Magistrate Mercy Kinyua, who oversaw the transfer of 134 ballot boxes containing used ballot papers, as well as additional boxes holding rejected votes and KIEMS kits.

The exercise was carried out under heavy security, with representatives of all parties to the petition, IEBC officials, security agencies and members of the media present to witness the process and ensure transparency.

The transfer followed a preservation order issued on January 15, 2025, by High Court Judge Richard Mwongo, directing that all election materials be placed under court custody ahead of the hearing slated to begin on March 9.

Deputy Registrar Mercy Kinyua said the court would enforce strict access procedures to safeguard the integrity of the materials throughout the petition process.

She emphasized that no party would be allowed to access the secure storage facility on its own, noting that any entry would only be permitted in the presence of all concerned parties.

Chief Magistrate Francis Kyambia also assured the parties that the materials would be kept under maximum security for the duration of the case.

To promote joint accountability, all parties involved in the petitions including advocates for both the petitioners and respondents, the IEBC and the Judiciary have been issued with keys to the safe house where the materials are stored.

Lawyers representing the various sides were present during the transfer. 

Dr. Adrian Kamotho Njenga appeared for the declared winner, Leonard Wamuthende, while petitioner Newton Kariuki Ndwiga was represented by advocate Kiriuki Njiri. The IEBC was represented by Embu County Returning Officer Agnes Mutisya.

The court is currently handling two election petitions arising from the by-election. The first was filed by Julieta Karigi Kithumbu and Patrick Gitonga Gichoni, while the second was lodged by Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, who was also a candidate in the race.

In Election Petition No. E002 of 2025, the IEBC is listed as the first respondent, the Returning Officer as the second, John Mwii Kinyua as the third respondent, and the declared winner, Leo Wa Muthende Njeru, as the fourth. The petition alleges irregularities in the conduct of the election and seeks to have the results nullified.

The parties are expected back in court on February 12 for further directions, as the High Court moves to determine the matter within the constitutionally stipulated 60-day period, with judgment expected by May 28.

President Dr William Ruto greets young people from Machakos, Kitui and Makueni counties at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos Town during the launch of NYOTA programme yesterday. He was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki (pictured),  Cabinet Secretaries and MPs.|PCS

The Head of State said due to digitisation of programmes like the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement(NYOTA), every young person had an equal and fair chance of qualifying for the startup capital.

"To eliminate brokers, middleman and use of connections,  and to make sure every young person in Kenya has an equal chance, we made a decision that no one would be recommended by anyone in the NYOTA programme. Everyone had to apply online", said Dr Ruto.

He was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki,  Labour CS Alfred Mutua, Cooperatives and MSMEs CS Wycliffe Oparanya, Sports CS Salim Mvurya and Members of Parliament.

The President said NYOTA fund covers the whole country for young people to get business startup capital. "Today, this programme benefits between 70 and 80 young people in each of the country's 1450 wards".

Leonard Wa Muthende (left) greets election petitioner Newton Kariuki Ndwiga inside the Embu High Court. MWINGI TIMES |Brian Musyoka

The petitions stem from the hotly contested Mbeere North by-election, which ended with Wa Muthende clinching the seat by a razor-thin margin, a result that has continued to stir political debate across the constituency.

The matter is before Justice Richard Mwongo, who during a pre-trial conference today 15th January 2026 indicated that the court would consider consolidating the two petitions into one, given that they raise similar issues of law and fact.

Two separate petitions are before the court,one filed by voters Julieta Karigi Kithumbu and Patrick Gitonga Gichoni, and another by Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, who was a candidate in the by-election.

Both petitions seek to nullify Wa Muthende’s election and compel the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to conduct a fresh poll in Mbeere North Constituency.

At the heart of the dispute is the identity of the declared winner. The petitioners argue that Wa Muthende legally changed his name from Leonard Muriuki Njeru to Leo Wa Muthende Njeru through a Deed Poll dated September 3, 2024, but that election materials continued to bear his former name.

They contend that this discrepancy violated constitutional and electoral law requirements that a candidate must be a registered voter under the same name used in the election, thereby rendering his candidature invalid.

The petitioners have further accused the IEBC and the Mbeere North Returning Officer of accepting nomination documents that allegedly carried inconsistent identities, saying this undermined the credibility of the electoral process.

Wa Muthende was declared winner after garnering 15,802 votes, narrowly defeating Newton Kariuki Ndwiga of the Democratic Party, who polled 15,308 votes in one of the closest by-elections in the country.

In Election Petition No. E002 of 2025, the IEBC is named as the 1st respondent, the Returning Officer as the 2nd respondent, John Kinyua as the 3rd respondent, and Wa Muthende as the 4th respondent.

The petitioners are represented by a team of senior advocates including Kariuki Njiru, Kibe Mungai, Ndegwa Njiru, Kiragu Wathuta, George Karuthui, Mary Gacheru, Angela Maina, Watere Wangui, Brian Micheni and Kiroko Ndegwa.

Wa Muthende on his defense is represented by Mwaniki Gachuba and Dr Adrian Kamotho Njenga, while the IEBC, the Returning Officer and Kinyua are represented by Charles Mwongela and Laureen Omondi.

However, during the pre-trial proceedings, the petitioners objected to the IEBC being represented by external lawyers, citing a High Court order issued in Nakuru barring public bodies from engaging private counsel where they have in-house legal officers.

Justice Mwongo directed the petitioners to file a formal application on the matter and serve all parties, as the court also gave directions on the possible consolidation of the two petitions.

The judge further ordered that all election materials, including ballot boxes and ballot papers, be secured at the Embu High Court under tight security and noted that election laws require the matter to be concluded within six months, with judgment expected by May 28th.

Security was heightened in and around the Embu High Court as supporters from both sides thronged the precincts, creating a tense atmosphere that mirrored the political stakes surrounding the fate of the Mbeere North parliamentary seat.

Mbeere North MP Leonard Muthende (second left) at Embu High Court. He was accompanied accompanied by Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku. MWINGI TIMES |Brian Musyoka

The court premises are already busy with activity as lawyers, journalists, supporters and members of the public gather to witness the opening phase of the high-profile case.

The matter is being presided over by Embu High Court Judge Richard Mwongo, who is set to steer the proceedings in what is shaping up to be a fierce legal contest.

Both the petitioners and the defence are fielding top lawyers, signalling that neither side is taking chances in a case that could have major political consequences for Mbeere North.

The petition is filed by two petitioners together with Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, who also contested the Mbeere North parliamentary seat in the last general election.They are challenging the validity of Muthende’s win, arguing that the electoral process leading to his victory should be examined by the court.

Muthende, on his part, maintains that he is duly elected by the people of Mbeere North and remains confident that the court will uphold his mandate. Yesterday, Judge Mwongo reiterated that the constitutional six-month timeline for determining the petition remains in force and cannot be extended.

"We are working within a deadline of six months and by 28th May 2026 we should be delivering the judgement," said judge Mwongo when he met journalists yesterday.

This firm stance puts pressure on both sides to move swiftly as they prepare to present their arguments and evidence before the court.

As the pre-trial proceedings begin, all eyes remain fixed on the Embu High Court, where a political and legal showdown is now unfolding.

Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Hon Geoffrey Ruku. |MWINGI TIMES

Known for his passion to succeed, youthful energy and unconventional leadership style, CS Ruku was appointed after serving only two years and seven months in elective politics(Mbeere North MP). While his elevation initially surprised observers, his performance has quickly validated the President’s confidence in him.

True to form, CS Ruku wasted no time settling into office. On his very first day after being sworn in at State House, Nairobi, he made an impromptu visit to Central Police Station, Nairobi, embarking on a fact-finding mission to assess service delivery to citizens at the frontline.

That unannounced visit set the tone for his tenure. Similar inspections of government offices across the country soon followed, with the CS consistently reiterating that public servants must uphold efficiency, integrity and responsiveness, in line with Articles 232 and 10 of the Constitution. What began as a one-off visit quickly became a defining trend of his leadership.

CS Ruku carried into National office the same energy that made him a darling of Mbeere North Constituency, a previously little-known semi-arid region he helped transform through development projects and people-centred initiatives. His hands-on style and accessibility endeared him to constituents and laid the foundation for his broader appeal.

One of his first flagship reform initiative at the ministry is “Huduma Smart Serikalini”, launched under the slogan “A fresh approach, timeless impact,” that has placed renewed emphasis on quality service delivery, accountability and citizen satisfaction across public institutions.

Under his watch, the State Department for Special Programmes has earned public praise for swift disaster response. CS Ruku has personally led interventions at major fire incidents and and disasters in the Country , most recently, the South C collapsed building, visiting the site at the wee hours of the night to ensure search, rescue and recovery operations were conducted safely and concluded as quickly as possible.

Behind the scenes, his Harambee House office has become a hive of activity, frequented daily by Kenyans from across the country seeking help. Sources say the CS is known to pick calls and respond to text messages from unsaved numbers and respond personally to citizens’ concerns.

A widely shared incident captured this ethos: when a pregnant woman from Bondo, struggling to afford a critical Anti-D injection, sought help at his office, CS Ruku personally walked out to meet her and paid for the medication without hesitation, allowing her to use the balance for basic needs. The act, though simple, resonated deeply with the public.

Unlike many technocrats who shy away from political engagement, CS Ruku has never avoided political proclamations. He is known to “take the bull by the horns” on contentious matters, openly defending the administration’s agenda.

This political confidence was on full display during the recent Mbeere North by-elections, where CS Ruku took a frontline role in campaigning for the UDA candidate, alongside Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki. The UDA victory not only reinforced Ruku’s influence on the ground but is now reshaping Mt Kenya politics, increasingly pitting DP Kindiki against his impeached predecessor Rigathi Gachagua who seems to have lost the grip of the Mountain despite chest thumping that he is undoubtedly the Mt Kenya King.

Barely a year into office, CS Geoffrey Ruku represents a new breed of Cabinet leadership, decisive, visible, politically grounded and deeply human. Whether inspecting police stations on day one, responding to disasters, or personally helping a struggling citizen, he has shown that public service can be both effective and compassionate.

It is this blend of action, empathy and boldness that explains his soaring approval ratings, and why many now view him as one of the administration’s most consequential figures.

Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya(centre, holding trophy) poses for a group photo with young people in Kivoi Ward, Mwingi Central sub county. He called upon them to register as voters to choose leaders during the upcoming 2027 General Election.|MWINGI TIMES

Speaking in Kivou ward,  Mwingi Central sub county, Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya urged the youth to turn up in large numbers in the ongoing Continous Voter Registration(CVR) terming them a powerful generation capable of shaping the future.

Speaker Katisya will be contesting for the Kitui Senator seat. He urged elected leaders to unite for equitable development of Kitui . He was speaking during the Fourth Finals Edition of Hon. Sammy Munyithya Cup.  He said the county can only achieve meaningful progress through sincere cooperation that transcends party affiliations,  generational divides and personal ambitions.

Mwingi North MP Paul Nzengu and his die -hard supporter Muema Nduku follow proceedings at his residence during a New Year Party he has hosted for his constituents on Friday.|MWINGI TIMES

The massive crowd, drawn from across the entire Mwingi North Constituency, cheerfully partook of sumptuous meals that appeared to flow seamlessly from a makeshift kitchen erected outside the MP’s imposing ‘White House’ residence.

Attendees came from as far as Usueni in Tseikuru, Tharaka in Mumoni, Ngomeni in the marginal areas of Kyuso sub-county, and Kakuyu in Mumoni among other areas.

A section of constituents enjoying a meal as Mwingi North MP Paul Nzengu throws a marathon New Year Party at his rural residence in Kitui County on Friday.|MWINGI TIMES

Representatives of delegations from Tseikuru and Kyuso wards hailed Nzengu for spearheading what they described as remarkable development across the vast constituency.

They also patted him on the back for ensuring equity in the distribution of education bursaries to needy learners. They said that previously the distribution of bursary support was discriminative.

Youth enjoy a meal at the rural residence of Mwingi North MP Paul Nzengu on Friday.|MWINGI TIMES

By the time of going to press, the huge crowd was patiently waiting to be addressed by MP Nzengu, with some urging him to clear the air on rumours doing the rounds that he could be denied the Wiper Party ticket in the next election.

Nzengu is serving his second term as MP, having first been elected to Parliament in 2017 and re-elected in 2022. On both occasions, he was sponsored by Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Party.