The president said all regions should be developed equitably. At the Eastern Kenya Integrated College in Mitaboni, Machakos county, President Ruto said no part of the country will be left behind.

Kenya Kwanza government is particularly targeting the three Ukambani counties of Machakos, Makueni and Kitui for affordable housing and fresh produce market programmes, according to a communique from Presidential Communication Service shared with the media.

President Ruto said his government had set aside KSh 45 billion to fund the construction of affordable houses, building student hostels and developing fresh produce markets in Ukambani.

Further, President Dr William Ruto said that more goodies were lined up in the former Vice President Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka's political home turf.

KSh 5.5 billion has been set aside to build roads in Ukambani while another similar allocation has been made for electricity connections.

"It is not right or fair for any part to remain behind. We are one nation, one people with a common destiny", said the fifth president of Kenya.

President Ruto further said that his government will transform Ukambani's food security through irrigation terming it as the "next frontier ". This, he said, will be helped by completion of Thwake Dam which is in the final stages.

"The next frontier for agricultural transformation is irrigation and Ukambani has huge potential", the president outlined.

During the visit, it was revealed that the Eastern Integrated College had applied for a Letter of Interim Authority and charter to offer degree courses. The Ministry of Education outlined the process they need to follow in order to achieve those dreams.

Of note is that this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations will be held at Ithookwe International Stadium in Kitui County and President Ruto-led government invested KSh 800 million for construction of the state-of-the-art stadium. The town will also benefit from upgrading of infrastructure around the stadium.

The president was accompanied by Labour CS Dr Alfred Mutua, Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda, MPs Caleb Mule of Machakos Town, Joshua Mwalyo, Masinga and Kangundo's Fabian Muli.

Also present was former Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama, MCAs and other county leaders.

Speaking during a public engagement at Kavengero in Mbeere North, CS Ruku questioned why Muturi and Kivuti, both of whom held senior positions in government, are now attempting to "mislead the community" and push it into what he termed as political isolation.

“You worked with the government for years, JB Muturi as a magistrate, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly for 10 years, and even Attorney General. Kivuti also served as a senator. Why now mislead the people of Mbeere into opposing the very government that can help them?” Ruku posed, addressing a large crowd.

He challenged the two to stop presenting aspirants with weak academic and leadership credentials, saying that if they were genuinely committed to helping the community, they would encourage well-educated individuals capable of being appointed to powerful House committees and lobbying effectively for development resources.

“If they truly care about Mbeere, let them bring their own sons who are educated, people who can walk into Parliament, get committee placements, and fight for development. Leadership is not just about popularity; it’s about the capacity to deliver,” Ruku said.

However, the Cabinet Secretary was quick to clarify that the people of Mbeere have no personal issues with Muturi or Kivuti. He expressed deep respect for their past contributions but urged them not to drag personal grievances into the political space.

“JB, I respect you so much. But your differences with the President should not be settled at the expense of the Mbeere community,” he said.

Ruku warned against a return to clan-based and divisive politics, which he said belong to the past. He accused the two leaders of reviving outdated political tactics aimed at splintering the community rather than uniting it around a shared development agenda.

“Those pushing clan politics in Mbeere North have no space. That kind of politics is behind us because what our people need now is unity and development,” he declared.

Ruku highlighted several ongoing and upcoming development projects in Mbeere North as proof of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment. These include the planned tarmacking of the Kathangeri–Kavengero–Kanyuambora road, which he described as a game-changer for local connectivity, trade, and transport.

He also noted that the tarmacking of the Kanyuambora–Kamumu–Soko–Nthawa road was in progress, lauding President William Ruto for prioritising infrastructure in the region. “This is what development looks like. These roads will open markets, link villages, and uplift lives,” he noted.

Additionally, Ruku revealed that the funds for completing the Kanyuambora irrigation project will be available, ensuring the project is completed before December, with disbursement expected next week. He said the initiative will transform agriculture in the area, enhance food security, and economically empower hundreds of households.

“Our people depend on farming. Once the irrigation project starts, we shall stop talking about hunger. That is the kind of empowerment we’re bringing to Mbeere North,” he added.

Ruku urged locals to stay firmly behind President Ruto’s administration, warning against being misled by leaders who want to alienate the region from national development.

“We are in government, and that’s where we must stay. Anyone telling you to walk away from that is playing politics with your future,” he cautioned.

He called for unity among leaders and the public, saying only a united community can attract meaningful development.

“Politics of division and clanism will not build a single road or feed a single family. Mbeere understands one language, development,” he said.

Speaking during an ordination ceremony of EAPC priest as an overseer in Makima, Mbeere South, Senator Mundigi said the Kenya Kwanza administration has made significant strides in delivering on its promises and deserves fair recognition.

“The government of President William Ruto has touched every corner of this country with development. As much as the church can point out areas of concern, it should also tell the faithful what has been achieved,” said Mundigi.

The Senator cited the massive recruitment of teachers under the Ruto administration as one of the biggest wins for the education sector, noting that the move has eased the burden of congestion in schools and improved learning outcomes.

“Today, our children are benefiting from more teachers in schools because this government listened to the cries of parents and learners. That is a story that the church should also help to tell,” he stated.

Mundigi further expressed confidence that the government will secure reelection in the future because of its ongoing development agenda. He praised President Ruto and his deputy, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, for working in unity to fulfill their manifesto.

“This is a government of action, and Kenyans are seeing the results. With the pace of development, I have no doubt that Kenyans will reward this administration with another term,” he said.

The Senator was hosted by Bishop Samuel Muguna of the EAPC Church during the ordination of one of the priests to the position of overseer. The event brought together congregants and leaders from across the region.

Bishop Muguna thanked the Senator for gracing the occasion, urging political leaders to work closely with the church in fostering unity, peace, and development in Mbeere and beyond.

Mundigi assured the clergy of his support, pledging to continue championing policies that empower churches, promote education, and uplift livelihoods in Embu County. “The church and government are partners in shaping society. If we walk hand in hand, our people will truly prosper,” he concluded.

Mbao, who is deaf reaffirmed his loyalty to the Jubilee Party and its leader, former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He said his vision, investment, and political journey are inseparable from the party that once led government and continues to command support across the Mt. Kenya region .

"Jubilee is my home, and I am not leaving. My investment, my vision, and my journey remain firmly tied to this party. We must protect it from opportunists and rebuild it to its former glory,” Mbao told journalists during a press briefing in Mbeere North.

His remarks come at a time when the party has been rocked by controversy following a statement by Jubilee Communications Director Pauline Njoroge, who recently suggested that Jubilee would not field a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election. The announcement threw the party’s grassroots supporters into confusion and appeared to put Mbao’s candidacy on the line.

Pauline Njoroge, a fierce defender of Jubilee’s legacy on social media and one of its most visible communications strategists, has been a key voice in shaping the party’s messaging. However, her suggestion that Jubilee will sit out the Mbeere North race has drawn criticism from aspirants and members who believe the constituency cannot be abandoned.

Mbao dismissed her remarks as “misguided and out of touch with the people,” insisting that only the Jubilee National Executive Committee, under the leadership of Uhuru Kenyatta, has the authority to decide on candidates.

“The people of Mbeere North deserve a Jubilee candidate who reflects their aspirations and development agenda. I call on our party leadership to urgently issue me with the certificate. I am ready to carry the flag and deliver victory,” he stated firmly.

Mbao also used the opportunity to call out nominated MP Sabina Chege, accusing her of repeated attempts to undermine Jubilee’s leadership. He said her actions, together with those of other “political opportunists,” amount to betrayal of the millions of Kenyans who still hold Jubilee close to their hearts.

“Jubilee is bigger than any individual. Attempts to overthrow its leadership and frustrate its loyal members are acts of betrayal. This party was built on unity, peace, and development, and we must defend it,” Mbao said.

Despite the turbulence within his party, Mbao said his campaign remains on course. He pledged to focus on development, democracy, and good governance, promising to continue the projects initiated by the former MP while introducing fresh ideas to uplift the lives of Mbeere North residents.

“Our journey has not changed. Our resolve remains firm, and our campaign is anchored on the values that matter to our people. No matter the challenges, I will be on the ballot to give Mbeere North a chance at real transformation,” he assured his supporters.

The by-election has attracted fierce competition, with Leonard Muthende of UDA, Duncan Mbui of Chama Cha Kazi, and Newton Karish of the Democratic Party also in the race. Political analysts say the constituency will be a hotbed of political activity as different parties test their strength ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Even as Jubilee struggles to find its footing amid leadership disputes and mixed signals, Mbao maintains optimism of flying the Jubilee party ticket in the next by election. 

“I remain hopeful. The people of Mbeere North are behind me, and no amount of confusion will stop our march to victory,” he said.

Addressing more than 1,500 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) at Kangaru School Hall in Embu, the leaders underscored that President William Ruto’s administration has rolled out numerous projects geared towards uplifting the livelihoods of Kenyans.

PS Muthoni stressed that it was the duty of government officers to directly engage citizens and demystify projects, countering propaganda circulating in the region. She said senior state officials would traverse grassroots levels to explain government policies and particularly encourage residents to register with the Social Health Authority.

On her part, Governor Cecily Mbarire, who also the UDA chairperson, urged leaders allied to President Ruto to confidently market government programs without succumbing to intimidation.

Mbarire cautioned locals against falling for narratives pushed by critics of the administration, taking a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies for attempting to lure Mt. Kenya voters away from the Kenya Kwanza fold.

She further pointed out that Embu County had already benefited from several government projects and advised residents not to be misled by Opposition figures, some of whom, she argued, might be barred from contesting in future polls due to constitutional limitations.

The leaders pledged to enhance the welfare and pay of CHPs while committing to strengthen the health sector within the county.

They appealed to residents to maintain confidence in the Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting that its programs are designed with the best interests of the nation at heart.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA

Speaking during a special programmes outreach and public engagement in Rachuonyo Constituency, Homa Bay County, CS Ruku said the political cooperation between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has opened new doors for unity, economic growth, and inclusive development.

"The broad-based government is not about individuals; it's about the people of Kenya. It’s about making sure that no region is left behind," said Ruku, underscoring the importance of the recently fostered unity between the two leaders.

He pointed out that the spirit of cooperation is already bearing fruit, with a number of development projects being launched across the country, including in previously marginalized areas. He urged both leaders and citizens to rally behind the initiative, noting that it reflects a shared vision for national progress.

According to the CS, the Nyanza region, long perceived as politically isolated, now holds a meaningful stake in the current administration.

"The people of Nyanza have a big space in this government. Their needs and aspirations are being addressed through targeted and inclusive programmes. Development will be realized and opportunities fairly distributed," he assured residents.

Ruku cautioned against divisive politics driven by emotion, stating that such rhetoric only undermines progress. Instead, he called on communities to embrace unity and focus on the tangible benefits of the government’s ongoing projects.

On healthcare, the Cabinet Secretary revealed that all public servants are now fully covered under their medical scheme, with over KSh 4 billion already being disbursed to the  Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure consistent access to healthcare services.

He encouraged residents to register under the SHA, emphasizing that the scheme is central to the government’s broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

"The Social Health Authority will ease the financial burden on families and guarantee access to quality, affordable care for all," he said.

CS Ruku reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to service delivery in Homa Bay and across the country, pledging continued investment in infrastructure, education, health, and social protection as part of efforts to uplift the lives of ordinary Kenyans.

‎Out of the total  amount raised, Kavili mobilised buddies, friends and business associates to donate a total of Sh7.1 million to support the ongoing construction of the magnificent storey Kiatine Deliverance Church.

‎One of Kavili's friend from Kithyoko area in Machakos county, Elijah Kyuli,who landed in the church compound in a chopper delivered a Sh.1 million donation from the Head of State President William Ruto.

‎Kyuli also pledged to ensure the growing of at least 1000 trees within in the church precincts to make the place more attractive and hospitable.

‎With Kavili's guests who also included  the Chief Corporate Security Officer at Safaricom PLC, Nicholas Mulila, having donated the lion's share of the events  total funds raised, other donors only gave close to Sh. 2 million, according to the ‎Church's presiding pastor, Rev. Augustus Munuve.

‎The cleric said  the contribution made at the fundraiser was a big shot in the arm for the church construction project that started over 15 years ago."We have gotten a big boost for the donation given during today's fundraiser. We had already spent Sh.20 million in the project that was intially estimated to cost Sh.36 million," the clergyman told newsmen after the event.

‎He said that although the cost of  construction materials had shot up over time, the amount raised would do considerable work and the bit that will remain will only need another fundraiser to completely finish the project.

‎Munuve called on well to do Kenyans and people of good will to be always ready to support church projects in order to get divine blessings.

‎

The Wiper Patriotic Front senator alluded to the fact that Ms Ngilu and another unnamed person from Ukambani "forced Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka to endure humiliation in Azimio-OKA coalition" when he was subjected to an interview on whether he was fit to become Raila's running mate.

President Dr William Ruto defeated Raila Odinga in the 2022 general elections. His then running mate was Rigathi Gachagua who is now  his fierce critic after an acrimonious fallout.

Ms Ngilu is keen to recapture the governor seat she lost in 2022 and Senator Wambua has expressed interest in vying for the seat hence the rivalry.

The 7 day consultative meeting was geared towards assessing the progress and milestones achieved by the county government of Kitui under governor Julius Malombe in the last two years, as well as pit proper measures for future development.

Speaking at a press conference after the conclusion of the meeting, Kitui governor Dr. Julius Malombe decried the introduction of the E-procurement system by the national government, claiming that too few departments had been onboarded, hence the system may slow development across many counties. 

He also took the opportunity to demystify the myth that there is a poor relationship between his county executive and the county assembly, saying that the huge turn up of MCAs was a testimony to the good working relationship they enjoy.

Malonza, who served as Kitui’s first Deputy Governor under Dr. Julius Malombe during the first term of devolution in 2013, later rose to national leadership when she was appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage in 2022. 

However, her tenure at the Tourism docket was short-lived. In the Cabinet reshuffle of October 5, 2023, President William Ruto moved her to the Ministry of East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development. She served there until the President’s dismissal of all Cabinet Secretaries late last year, after which she did not make a return.

Since leaving government, Malonza has been running various projects at the grassroots level. She now joins at least six other aspirants eyeing the Kitui governor’s seat, setting the stage for a heated contest ahead of the 2027 polls.

By JOSPHINE MWENDE 

Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya has urged leaders to focus on project delivery rather than engaging in early campaigns. "I know most of us are politicians, but I request that we prioritize working for this county and avoid early campaigns," Kinengo said.

The Speaker emphasized that the work done for the people will ultimately determine the outcome of the 2027 elections. "What will matter in 2027 is the work that leaders have done. It's what will make you get re-elected for another term. Eighty percent of the work you've done well for the people will ensure you return to office," Kinengo added.

Speaker Kinengo also called on members of the county assembly to collaborate with the county government to drive project execution. "As members of the county assembly, we will work in cooperation with the county executive, led by Governor Dr. Julius Makau Malombe, to ensure project delivery," Speaker Kinengo said.

Led by vocal party supporter Beth Kariuki, the group insisted that Gachagua has every right to come back to his country without harassment. Ms Kariuki maintained that attempts to detain him at the airport would be met with fierce resistance from his followers across Embu County.

“If they dare arrest Gachagua, we will storm the streets naked to demand his immediate release,” she declared before a charged crowd, adding that Embu residents were prepared to go to any lengths to defend the former DP.

She further explained that Gachagua’s anticipated return was a huge moment for Embu people and his political base nationwide. According to Ms Kariuki, the former DP is expected to tour Embu County and drum up support for the DCP candidate in the looming Mbeere North by-election.

Kariuki described Gachagua as a law-abiding citizen who has never gone against the constitution, questioning why he appeared to be a marked man in the current political climate. She accused certain "forces" in government of fearing his influence and popularity.

Her sentiments were echoed by Jasmel Thoithi, who urged the State to respect the Opposition and critics instead of persecuting them. Thoithi argued that freedom of speech and association are cornerstones of democracy that cannot be trampled on by any regime.

“The government should not intimidate those who criticize it. Every Kenyan has a right to express themselves without fear,” Thoithi emphasized, warning that Embu supporters were alert and ready to defend their leader’s dignity.

Eddie Njeri, another staunch supporter, said Gachagua’s growing popularity in the grassroots has unsettled many within the ruling ranks. According to Njeri, Gachagua poses a real threat in the upcoming by-elections, as his endorsement could tilt the balance in favor of DCP candidates nationwide.

Njeri claimed that the anxiety surrounding Gachagua’s political moves was the reason behind the alleged attempts to block or arrest him. “They know once Gachagua steps back into the political arena, he will shake the ground and topple those opposing DCP candidates across the country,” he noted.

As Gachagua prepares to make his much-awaited return, his supporters in Embu are bracing themselves for what they believe will be a defining political showdown.

Addressing the media moments after launching the tarmacking of the KWS–Mama Ngina road in Embu Town together with KURA officers, the governor maintained that service delivery in Embu County will remain fair and inclusive, regardless of political differences.

“During my tenure, I will continue serving the people of Manyatta with utmost energy because they elected the government of the day. I will defend their development without fear in the national government. If others have chosen to do opposition politics, let them continue with their politics,” Mbarire asserted.

She accused Mukunji of political double speak, saying it was ironic for the MP to criticize the government while at the same time posing for photographs at project sites funded and implemented by the same administration.

Mbarire further dismissed Mukunji’s claims that she was involved in his arrest and the arrests of other anti-government critics. She challenged such leaders to take responsibility for their own actions instead of seeking political sympathy by dragging her name into controversies.

“The truth is, each person should carry their own cross. If you are in trouble with the law, face it like a leader instead of blaming others for your misfortunes,” she remarked.

The governor reiterated her commitment to ensuring that all parts of Embu benefit from infrastructure, healthcare, and other key government programs, saying that development should never be used as a political weapon.

Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) Director General Silas Kinoti, who accompanied Mbarire, announced that the national government had set aside Sh123 million to tarmac several roads in Embu Town and other major trading centres within the county.

 Dr Malombe said as to whether or not he will defend his seat in 2027, his focus and priority had shifted to addressing the pressing issues currently affecting 1.2 million county residents whose agenda is to have a distinguished life cycle.

“It is not my current focus on whether or not I will seek to defend my seat in the 2027 elections. My priority remains on delivering on the mandate I have been given to address the pressing needs of our people. If the constitution allows it, I will consider defending my seat, but that decision will be made at the opportune time. For now, I prefer not to politicise the next General Election.” the governor said.

He spoke on Saturday during the thanks-giving ceremony of the Yatta-Kwavonza MCA, Kitute Nding’o, at his Mamole village home in Kitui Rural. The ceremony was also attended by Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu, who announced his bid to succeed Malombe as governor in 2027 at the end of his constitutional tenure in office. Malombe said he will refrain himself from engaging in matters of succession politics but commit himself and his administration in tackling challenges that apparently have relegated and sidelined the semi-arid county from benefitting fully from available both county and national governments’ resources and opportunities.

He said his dream and aspiration was to resuscitate the development and transformation’s vision and agenda for the semi-arid county, and to progressively improve residents’ livelihoods and their living standards.

The governor underscored his government’s achievements two-years and 10 months in office in bringing order, sense of direction, proper planning and execution of programmes. He said his government already constructed the male and female wards at the Yatta Health Centre and committed to fully equipping them to further enhance healthcare services in the area.

His sentiments come when pioneer governors, who made a comeback in the 2022 general election, including Malombe himself, plan to persuade the High Court to scrap the term limit policy to allow them run again in 2027 elections.

The emerging development has triggered a political storm over the lacuna in law on the governors’ and their deputies’ two-term limit in office.

Once petitioned, the court will have a duty to interpret and determine the contentious Article 180 (7) of the Constitution on the election of county chiefs and deputies which states: “A person shall not hold office as a county governor for more than two terms”.

In Kitui in particular, allies of Malombe are pushing him to run for third term in 2027, arguing that his consecutive term was cut short in 2017 when he lost to Charity Ngilu, only to reclaim it in the 2022 polls.

However, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua, who also has declared his interest to succeed Malombe in 2027, termed the plot by the pioneer governors pushing for the ‘consecutive two terms’ law, as the most “demonstration of ignorance” .

Wambua said the lacuna in law narrative is a very retrogressive and selfish appreciation of the supreme law.

He said whereas it is the constitutional right of every citizen to move to court to pursue a just cause, this right must be weighed against the courts’ valuable time and the serious workload before our courts.

“There is no separate law for first term governors and those serving their second and last term. In my view, going to court to ask if a governor can serve a third term for whatever reason would be the clearest demonstration of ignorance in basic interpretation of the Constitution,” the senator said.

However, Wambua, who is scheduled to launch his gubernatorial bid at his Kyondoni village home, Kitui West on Saturday the August 9, said everyone has a right to approach the courts to pursue any just cause and wished the agitators well in their pursuit.

Mbeere Diocese ACK Bishop Prof. Moses Masamba  has come out strongly against the party’s decision to bypass a competitive nomination process, warning that political shortcuts could plunge the region into disunity.

“When a party handpicks a candidate and sidelines others without a fair contest, it breeds frustration, resentment, and division. Parties must honour their own democratic principles. All aspirants deserve an equal chance at the ballot and party nominations is remedy for this," said Bishop Masamba.

The Bishop, further said that issuing direct tickets in positions where multiple individuals have expressed interest is not only undemocratic but also risky. He urged UDA and other parties participating in by-elections across the country to uphold transparency and fairness to avoid triggering political tension.

“This country has come from far. We cannot afford to let political injustice undo the peace we have built over the years. The church stands for truth and fairness and we call on UDA to listen to the voices of its members,” he added.

The decision to front Muthende as the party's candidate has left eight other UDA hopefuls blindsided. Those who had expressed interest in the ticket include Speaker of the Embu County Assembly Josiah Thiriku, Ngari Makindu ,Konji Kwayo, Dun Mbogo ,Dr Murage Njagagua, Muriuki Njagagua and Kariuki Mate who has publicly declared support for Muthende. Speaker Thiriku, who is seen as a key contender, has already raised concern over what he terms a flawed and undemocratic process.

Bishop Masamba also emphasized the need for peace as the political tempo rises, warning that decisions made in closed-door boardrooms could fuel animosity on the ground.

“Peace is not just about silence or lack of conflict. It’s about fairness. If the process is unjust, even the winner will lack legitimacy. Let us put integrity above shortcuts,” the Bishop concluded.

Mbeere North MP seat fell vacant after President William Ruto appointed Geoffrey Ruku as Cabinet Secretary in charge of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programs.

Speaking during the funeral of Mary Wangui Ngari, a Principal Nurse at KenGen’s Eastern Hydros at Donbosco in Mbeere South,Mundigi defended the initiative, saying it is transforming lives across the country.

“Let the former Chief Justice stop attacking a programme that is changing lives on the ground. I have seen the impact myself. Kindiki is delivering real help to the people,” said Mundigi.

He dismissed Maraga’s alleged claim that the empowerment funds were proceeds of theft, calling the statement reckless and baseless.

“The Kenya Kwanza government promised to focus on housing, health, youth employment, and the empowerment of women and young people. What Kindiki is doing is exactly what we pledged to Kenyans,” Mundigi added.

He further urged Maraga to enjoy his retirement instead of making political statements.

“Maraga had his time. Now it’s time to let others work. He should relax and allow leaders to deliver.”Mundigi stated.

Mundigi advised beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to invest wisely.

“Use the money to buy land, join a Sacco, or start a business. Don’t break it into small amounts that disappear quickly. Grow yourselves and contribute to the economy.” senator Mundigi noted.

The Senator also emphasized that DP Kindiki and President William Ruto have every right to traverse all 47 counties to deliver development and empowerment, saying their efforts should not be politicized.

Turning his attention to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Mundigi criticized him over recent comments that appeared to discourage Kenyans abroad from investing back home.

“That’s misleading and unfair. Gachagua himself has invested in Kenya. Why tell others not to do the same? I urge our brothers and sisters abroad to invest in their country. One day, they’ll come back and benefit from it,” he said.

He concluded by calling on the government to create more job opportunities for Kenyan youth abroad, noting that this would boost incomes and strengthen the economy.

"As we received our new certificate, we were keenly aware of the significance of the timing. Political parties are not static but should be responsive to the people ", said Senior Counsel Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka.

The party is positioning itself for the upcoming 2027 General Elections. In a strongly worded statement on X, Musyoka said, "We acknowledge our responsibility to rescue and reclaim our beloved nation from the clutches of tyrannical dictatorship".

WPF will field candidates for all electoral offices, said the party leader.

The event was attended by Secretary General Senator Shakila Abdalla, Deputy Secretary General and Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua among other party officials and members.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi led the charge, voicing frustration that it had taken a young citizen to urge Gachagua to embrace national cohesion rather than sow division.

Speaking when he was launching rural electrification projects in Runyenjes, Wandayi lamented that it was now the youth reminding senior leaders about the importance of unity and patriotism values that leaders themselves should be instilling.

He underscored that national growth hinges on leaders who promote unity, peace, and inclusivity. He also pointed to President William Ruto’s inclusive leadership, especially through his cooperation with opposition chief Raila Odinga to build a government that represents all Kenyans.

Echoing Wandayi’s position, Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira rebutted Gachagua’s assertion that Mount Kenya had been marginalized under the current administration.

Wachira cited the appointment of eight Cabinet Secretaries and 15 Principal Secretaries from the region as evidence of President Ruto’s commitment to fair representation.

He encouraged locals to align with the government's development agenda, cautioning that more could be achieved through collaboration than political confrontation.

Embu Deputy Governor Kinyua Mugo joined in, warning residents against falling for divisive rhetoric pushed by self-serving politicians bent on creating instability.

Runyenjes MP Muchangi Karemba also weighed in, urging his constituents to prioritize service delivery over political maneuvering. He commended the government for expanding access to electricity, saying it would help stimulate economic activity and create jobs.

Karemba further appealed to the Ministry of Energy to set up a Kenya Power office within Runyenjes to make it easier for residents to report and resolve power-related issues, noting that they currently face long travel distances.

Embu senator Alexander Mundigi also urged Embu residents not to be duped to align with leaders who are not in government.

The leaders were unanimous in calling for unity and development-focused politics, urging citizens to shun divisive agendas and support national progress.

Embu county is set to benefit with Sh 568 million to connect locals with electricity where 6,365 household will benefit .

Despite intensive deliberations spearheaded by party officials, the eight aspirants eyeing the UDA ticket failed to agree on a compromise candidate to face off with the opposition in what is shaping up to be a high-stakes political showdown.

Among those in the race are Embu County Assembly Speaker Josiah Thiriku, former MP Muriuki Njagagua, his brother Dr. Murage Njagagua, Leonard Muthende, Konji Kwayo, Ngari Makindu, Dr. Dun Mbogo, and former County Assembly Speaker Kariuki Mate.

The party had hoped to avoid internal competition by rallying behind a consensus candidate, but with the talks collapsing, the battleground has now officially shifted to the grassroots.

In an agreement seen by MWINGI TIMES and signed by all the aspirants and the UDA party Chairperson Cecily Mbarire, they agreed for nominations to pick one fragbear who will tussle it out with opposition candidate in the contest.

With nominations looming, Mbeere North is expected to witness a flurry of political activity as the aspirants hit the ground running, pitching tent in villages and market centres to rally support and outshine each other in popularity.

The failed consensus sets the stage for a spirited campaign period, with each hopeful now sharpening their strategy to secure the coveted UDA ticket widely seen as a possible pass to Parliament in the vote-rich constituency.

As the clock ticks toward nominations, the people of Mbeere North brace for a political season like no other.

Other candidates eyeing Mbeere North MP seat include Newton Karish who is seeking election on Democratic party and Dun Mbui who will square it out with Rigathi Gachagua's DCP party.

 The tour also comes amid reports that Kalonzo Musyoka-led Wiper Patriotic Front, formerly Wiper Democratic Movement, will deny Nguna the party ticket to defend his seat in 2027 elections in favour of his opponent and former Kitui County Government Executive member Koki Musau alias Kuvasila over allegations of  “party loyalty and defiance.” Nguna’s other serious challenger is a newcomer in politics, Eng Jonathan Ngenga.

The MP will commission Kathumulani-Kyome-Ndaluni murram road and Ndaluni Secondary School classrooms in Kyome location in the morning before moving to commission the Bazaar-Kavililo-Kaikungu-Kanyaa murram road and five classrooms at Kavililo Primary School in Nzauni location in the afternoon.

Nguna defended his leadership and called on residents to exercise patience, declaring to deliver on his promises.

“I want to exude confidence that before 2027, many projects will have been implemented to completion,” he said.

He asked his competitors and constituency leaders to keep off from obstructing, disrupting or undue improper influencing a Chinese contractor from fulfilling his contractual obligations on the upgrading to bitumen standards the stalled session at Kwasiku-Migwani-Mbondoni road along the Kibwezi-Kitui highway.

Nguna said the contractor should be let free to do his work and uphold the integrity of the contract and protect the rights and responsibilities of the contract undertaken by the Chinese M/s Sinohydro Xia Corporation Ltd.

Speaking during the burial of Mama Mali Mutambu, 83, at AIC Thokoa Comprehensive School grounds in Kyome-Thaana ward in his constituency, the MP said President William Ruto committed his government that the works at the dilapidated 27 km section connecting Kwasiku to Mbondoni commences before his visit to the county on the Mashujaa Day on October 20, with the contractor moving to the site at Kathumulani area in Kyome location before embarking on the upgrading.

“The deal is final and sealed. We now see light at the end of the tunnel on this great road. It has been my prayer and aspiration for the tarmacking of the remaining stretch that passes through my constituency. It has been a challenging task to fight for the resumption of the works after the upgrading stalled in 2020 and the contractor pulled out. It has now come to pass with the contractor resuming works at this moment,” the MP said.

He thanked the President for committing himself fully in ensuring the completion of the crucial road that stalled at Kwa-Siku in Mwingi  West constituency in 2020, making transport difficult and expensive for motorists and passengers.

The MP said it was an open secret that sometime back he held talks with the President where they discussed development issues and agreed to partner on significant matters in making people’s lives better.

He said there is strength and unity of purpose for people to chart a united front and coalesce together for political, social and economic growth in their respective zones.

Nguna called on leaders across the political divide to discard politics of witch-hunt, hatred and bickering and focus on the region’s shared development agenda. “Our people have well-defined priorities, and these will serve as the foundation of our efforts to uplift Kitui and Ukambani at large. It is time for development,” the MP said.

He said key priorities identified included improving roads, enhancing access to clean water, advancing education, expanding electrification, ensuring affordable housing, and boosting progress across critical sectors.

Nguna sought to explain that his desire and vision were primarily to see all county leaders, irrespective of political affiliation, come together at one table to forge a shared common goal for the benefit of the community populace.

“We need to achieve our collective dream of having all our regional leaders irrespective of parties of affiliation come together at a negotiating table to chart a common agenda for our people” the MP said.