President William Ruto at Kamuwongo during the commissioning of the Kamuwongo-Kandwia road on November 13, 2025. He is flanked by Kitui Governor Julius Malombe (centre) among other senior government officials.|MWINGI TIMES

In November this year when President Ruto visited Kitui County, he commissioned the tarmacking of the Kamuwongo-Kandwia road, part of the Mwingi -Tseikuru truck road and said that funds would be sourced to tarmac the untarmacked section of the road upto Tseikuru.

He lamented at the time that despite some unnamed leaders from the area having held top government positions, residents had to make do with difficult terrain involving plenty of dust and mud to get to their homes. 

An advertisement on MyGov newspaper inviting bids from eligible contractors for upgrading to bitumen standards of Kyuso-Tseikuru road.|THE STAR

President Ruto, directed the CS in charge of Roads Ministry, Davies Chirchir who was part of his entourage to look for funds to ensure that the remaining 30 km Kyuso -Tseikuru section of the Mwingi – Tseikuru road was tarmacked.

The Kandwia-Kyuso section of the same road was tarmacked during the reign of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. However, the tender notice that was placed by Kenha on Tuesday said that the successful bidder would also strengthen the Kandwia-Kyuso road.

Last week, President Ruto publicly attacked Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader Kalonzo accusing him of failing to tarmac the road leading to his Tseikuru home despite being in national leadership for 40 years. He chided the Wiper leader for having to endure a lot of dust and mud whenever he visits his Tseikuru rural home.

On Tuesday the Kenya National Highway Authority invited qualified contractors to bid for the projects by January 5th, 2026. Interested bidders have also been asked to Converge at Kandwia market by 10 am on January 15th, 2026 to proceed for a site visit. 

The tender advertised from the deputy director general of Kenha said that funds for the project would come from Development votes.

In a social media post, the Kitui County Assembly Speaker, Kevin Katisya, who also hails from Tseikuru welcomed the government’s clear plans to tarmac the Kyuso-Tseikuru road by publicizing the tender. "On behalf of the great people of Tseikuru, as one of the Kenyans living in Tseikuru, I am very grateful to H.E The President for advertising the tarmacking of the road to my rural home in Tseikuru,” said Katisya in a social media post.

In November this year when President Ruto visited Kitui County, he commissioned the tarmacking of the Kamuwongo-Kandwia road, part of the Mwingi -Tseikuru truck road and said that funds would be sourced to tarmac the untarmacked section of the road upto Tseikuru.

He lamented at the time that despite some unnamed leaders from the area having held top government positions, residents had to make do with difficult terrain involving plenty of dust and mud to get to their homes. 

An advertisement on MyGov newspaper inviting bids from eligible contractors for upgrading to bitumen standards of Kyuso-Tseikuru road.|THE STAR

President Ruto, directed the CS in charge of Roads Ministry, Davies Chirchir who was part of his entourage to look for funds to ensure that the remaining 30 km Kyuso -Tseikuru section of the Mwingi – Tseikuru road was tarmacked.

The Kandwia-Kyuso section of the same road was tarmacked during the reign of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. However, the tender notice that was placed by Kenha on Tuesday said that the successful bidder would also strengthen the Kandwia-Kyuso road.

Last week, President Ruto publicly attacked Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader Kalonzo accusing him of failing to tarmac the road leading to his Tseikuru home despite being in national leadership for 40 years. He chided the Wiper leader for having to endure a lot of dust and mud whenever he visits his Tseikuru rural home.

On Tuesday the Kenya National Highway Authority invited qualified contractors to bid for the projects by January 5th, 2026. Interested bidders have also been asked to Converge at Kandwia market by 10 am on January 15th, 2026 to proceed for a site visit. 

The tender advertised from the deputy director general of Kenha said that funds for the project would come from Development votes.

In a social media post, the Kitui County Assembly Speaker, Kevin Katisya, who also hails from Tseikuru welcomed the government’s clear plans to tarmac the Kyuso-Tseikuru road by publicizing the tender. "On behalf of the great people of Tseikuru, as one of the Kenyans living in Tseikuru, I am very grateful to H.E The President for advertising the tarmacking of the road to my rural home in Tseikuru,” said Katisya in a social media post.

Embu DCP leaders when they addressed the press in Embu town on Monday, December 22, 2025. MWINGI TIMES|Brian Musyoka

The leaders accused the CS of engaging in dangerous political rhetoric that points to a possible plan to split the Mt Kenya region into two political blocs, a move they warned could inflame ethnic tensions and undermine national cohesion.

Speaking during a press briefing in Embu town on Monday 22nd December 2025 , the DCP leaders, led by Embu  Chairperson Joshua Kanake, said Ruku’s sentiments were reckless, divisive and unbecoming of a senior government official entrusted with national unity.

“These remarks are not accidental. They are calculated and politically motivated, aimed at sowing seeds of disunity among communities in Mt Kenya who have lived together peacefully for decades,” Kanake said.

He warned that such utterances, if left unchecked, risk reopening  political wounds in a region that has historically voted as a bloc but is now facing internal realignments ahead of 2027.

The leaders further questioned the silence of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), accusing the watchdog of selective application of the law when it comes to leaders allied to the ruling establishment.

“It is worrying that NCIC has gone quiet on this matter. When ordinary citizens speak, action is swift, but when Cabinet Secretaries make divisive remarks, there is deafening silence,” Kanake added.

DCP National Executive Committee member Steve Simba escalated the pressure, calling on Parliament to initiate impeachment proceedings against the CS, arguing that his remarks amount to ethnic polarization and tribal balkanization.

“We want to call upon Parliament to initiate an impeachment motion against CS Ruku over his tribal balkanization and ethnicity polarization. Such utterances should never come from a Cabinet Secretary,” Simba said.

Simba noted that Cabinet members are expected to rise above regional politics and instead champion unity, cohesion and equal development across the country.

The leaders maintained that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to live, work and participate politically in any part of the country without being subjected to tribal labeling or regional exclusion.

“Mt Kenya does not belong to one group or another. It belongs to all Kenyans who call it home. Dividing people along ethnic or regional lines is a betrayal of our Constitution,” Simba added.

Jane Karimi, turned her guns on Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, accusing her of tacitly supporting the narrative of splitting the Mt Kenya region for political expediency. "It is unfortunate and disappointing that a governor would be associated with calls to divide Mt Kenya. Such a push should not come from her office,” Karimi said.

She warned that leaders elected to serve should focus on development and service delivery rather than engaging in politics of exclusion and supremacy.

The DCP leaders urged President Dr William Ruto to act decisively, warning that failure to rein in senior officials accused of divisive politics could erode public trust in his administration’s commitment to national unity. They called on political leaders across the Mt Kenya region to reject rhetoric that pits communities against each other, saying the future of the region and the country lies in unity, inclusivity and issue-based politics as the 2027 elections draw closer.

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku recently ignited political debate after openly arguing that Mt Kenya East should chart its own independent political path, separate from what he termed the dominance of Mt Kenya West in regional politics. Speaking at various public forums, Ruku said the eastern bloc of the mountain has for decades voted as part of a larger Mt Kenya basket but has little to show in terms of top national leadership and equitable resource allocation.

Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi addressing press at ACK Mbuvori in Manyatta Constituency. MWINGI TIMES|Brian Musyoka

Mundigi confirmed that he was formally notified of the expulsion move about a week ago while on official duty in Uganda, a development that could potentially trigger a senatorial by-election should the process succeed. Unfazed, the senator dismissed the move as politically misguided, insisting he committed no offence by supporting Muthende.

He maintained that DP remains part of the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and that no formal decision has been made to sanction its exit. "As far as I know, DP is still in Kenya Kwanza. There has been no lawful or official resolution to leave the coalition,” Mundigi said, arguing that the accusations against him lack both legal and political basis.

Speaking during a mass wedding ceremony at ACK Church in Mbuvori, Nginda Ward, Manyatta Constituency on Saturday, December 20, 2025, Mundigi dared the party to proceed with the ouster bid, declaring he was fully prepared for a political and legal showdown.

“Those dreaming of a senatorial by-election are simply daydreaming.I was elected by the people of Embu, and they gave me a clear five-year mandate," Mundigi said.

The outspoken senator said he would not hesitate to challenge the expulsion in court if necessary, insisting that internal party processes cannot be abused to undermine the will of the electorate.

In a sharp political jab, Mundigi accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of being the invisible hand behind the plot, claiming the scheme is part of a wider plan to reconfigure regional politics.

He alleged that Gachagua is deliberately working to weaken and dismantle other political parties in the region to pave the way for the dominance of his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). According to Mundigi, such maneuvers threaten political pluralism and undermine democratic competition in Mt Kenya East and beyond.

At the same time, the senator defended his decision to campaign for Leonard Wa Muthende, saying his actions were guided by leadership merit rather than party allegiance. “This was never about party lines. It was about supporting a candidate with the ability, vision, and capacity to deliver for the people.”

Mundigi’s defiant stance now sets the stage for a high-stakes political and legal battle, one that could test party discipline, coalition politics, and the limits of internal democracy within Kenya’s evolving political landscape.

New Kitui County Assembly Service Board Members Wiper party Nominated MCA Jacquelene Kalenga and Athi MCA Muthama Kieti (Narc).

Yesterday, MCAs Mathew Ngovi of Chuluni ward (Wiper) and Hussein Mwandia  of Ikutha (Narc) were ejected from the powerful positions  in the board. Their places have  been taken up by Hon Jacquelyne Kalenga (Nominated by Wiper) and Athi MCA Muthama Kieti who  was elected on a Narc party  ticket.

Speaker Kevin Katisya congratulated the new appointees and urged them to serve with utmost professionalism steering clear party politics.

The newly appointed board members pledged to work with honour in safeguarding the dignity of the Assembly Service board and the entire County Assembly.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah speaking at Kangaru Girls' School Grounds during UDA party grassroots meeting. MWINGI TIMES|Brian Musyoka

Speaking at Kangaru Girls' School grounds in Embu county during a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots meeting, Ichung’wah said Mt Kenya East had stood firmly with Mt Kenya West for decades, and it was only fair that the favour be returned.

He reminded the gathering that unity within the mountain had always been the foundation of political success, arguing that no single bloc could claim victory without the support of the other.

According to Ichung’wah, Mt Kenya West has produced three presidents largely because of the unwavering backing from Mt Kenya East, a fact he said should never be ignored when discussions on future leadership arise.

He cited the presidency of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, noting that Mt Kenya East stood with him throughout his 15-year rule, setting a precedent of loyalty and collective responsibility within the region.

Ichung’wah further recalled the 10-year presidency of Mwai Kibaki, saying his second term would not have been possible without the votes from counties such as Tharaka Nithi, Embu and Meru.

He added that former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s rise to power was equally anchored on the support from Mt Kenya East, stressing that the region played a decisive role in shaping national leadership.

“You have told us from Mt Kenya West, and it is true  without Embu, Tharaka Nithi and Meru, Uhuru Kenyatta would not have been president,” Ichung’wah said, as he urged leaders from the western side of the mountain not to forget this history.

The National Assembly Majority Leader assured residents of Mt Kenya East that their long-standing loyalty will not be overlooked, insisting that the mountain must remain united going forward.

He also dismissed what he termed as divisive politics, accusing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of attempting to split Mt Kenya along regional lines, while affirming that the region remains firmly behind President William Ruto.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who is also the UDA party national chairperson, echoed Ichung’wah’s sentiments, saying Mt Kenya East has consistently supported regimes backed by Mt Kenya West and deserves reciprocal backing when its turn comes.

Mbarire pointed out that Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki is currently the highest-ranking political figure from Mt Kenya East, calling on leaders from Mt Kenya West to support him just as the East has done in the past.

Runyenjes Member of Parliament Eric Karemba reinforced the unity message, noting that Mt Kenya communities have long coexisted and supported one another, and that the time had come for Mt Kenya East to be supported in producing leadership for the benefit of the entire region.

Chuluni MCA Mathew Ngovi Vuthi (left) and his Ikutha Ward counterpart Hussein Mwandia (right) were on Tuesday unanimously removed from the County Assembly Service Board of Kitui by MCAs.|COURTESY

The two were nominated to CASB on the strength of their political parties for representation. MCA Vuthi represented Wiper Patriotic Front. As for his colleague from Ikutha ward, he represented the National Rainbow Coalition, NARC.

Mr Vuthi was accused of addressing the media on September 23 last year and divulging internal matters from CASB that were still under consideration. The Chuluni ward representative who served as the vice chairperson of the board violated his oath of office prescribed under Section 38 and the Third Schedulle of the County Assembly Services Act, 2017, said the County Assembly of Kitui on its official Facebook page.              

It added that he violated the County Assemblies Powers and Privileges Act, 2017.

Hon Vuthi was also found to have used vulgar language directed at Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya who is the Chairperson of the CASB.

The same accusations were leveled against MCA Hussein Mwandia.

"Their reckless handling of confidential and official matters has tarnished the image of both the County Assembly and the County Assembly Service Board,  thereby adversely affecting their public standing" said the County Assembly of Kitui.

Kitui County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya speaks at Musavani Comprehensive School. He will be vying for Kitui Senator post in 2027 General Elections|MWINGI TIMES

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku addressing Congregants at Full Gospel Church Kangaru,Embu. MWINGI TIMES|Brian Musyoka

The leaders said the region must chart its own political destiny and free itself from narratives that do not reflect the interests and development priorities of Mt Kenya East.

Speaking during a church service at Full Gospel Church, Kangaru, on Sunday, December 14, 2025, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku called on residents to ignore calls by certain leaders to hate President William Ruto and his government.

Ruku warned that there is a well-organized and coordinated scheme aimed at turning Mt Kenya residents against the President, claiming the plan is being orchestrated by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

He said Mt Kenya East has suffered for a long time under the “Mt Kenya basket agenda,” where the region’s issues are bundled together with the broader Mt Kenya politics, often to its disadvantage.

“We cannot allow ourselves to be consumed in a pocket moving forward. Mt Kenya East must stand firm and protect its own political and economic interests,” Ruku said.

The CS urged Gachagua to desist from dragging Mt Kenya East into divisive politics, insisting that the region will pursue its own political path independent of the larger Mt Kenya voting bloc.

Ruku pointed out that Mt Kenya East has capable national leadership, citing Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki as evidence that the region can shape its own future without external influence.

In a sharp response, Ruku described Gachagua as a “lord of division,” accusing him of promoting politics of hatred and ethnic polarization.

“We will divide the Mountain if we must. Mt Kenya East will stand alone. The East will have its own title deed,” Ruku declared.

He defended the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying coffee and tea prices have strengthened following direct intervention by President William Ruto, improving the livelihoods of farmers in the region.

Ruku claimed Gachagua was removed from government due to incompetence and said he lacks the capacity to pull other leaders and communities into what he termed as his personal political mess.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire echoed Ruku’s remarks, saying Mt Kenya East will not hesitate to chart its own political course if pushed.

“I want to echo the words of CS Ruku. If need be, as Mt Kenya East, we shall chart our own political path moving forward. We will not be dragged into politics that do not serve our people,” Mbarire said.

Happening now:County Assembly of Kitui Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya (centre) arrives in Musavani Comprehensive School in Tseikuru Ward for a  Thanksgiving Ceremony.|MWINGI TIMES

Speaking during a press briefing on 6th December 2025 in Embu town, the youth said the outcome of the just-concluded Mbeere North by-election had clearly demonstrated the region’s political direction. They argued that the constituency’s choice was “a direct endorsement” of Prof. Kindiki’s leadership in the region .

They pointed to the victory of Leonard Wa Muthende, the candidate supported by DP Kindiki, who won against Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, backed by Gachagua describing the results as a decisive statement delivered vote by vote.

“This was not just a by-election.It was a referendum on who Mt. Kenya trusts to steer its political future.The people spoke loudly, and they chose Prof. Kithure Kindiki,"Peterson Merichi the chairman of the youth league said.

The leaders dismissed Gachagua’s  regional mobilization, accusing him of creating unnecessary division. “Any individual posturing and masquerading as the Mt. Kenya kingpin without the people’s mandate is misleading the public,”he said.

They emphasized that Mt. Kenya’s stability depends on respecting the will expressed at the ballot.

They further praised the UDA’s overall performance in the recent by-elections, noting that the party secured 12 out of 24 seats nationally saying the victory  reaffirmed UDA’s dominance.

The youth leaders also applauded Prof. Kindiki for what they described as decisive and unifying leadership. “He has proven himself a stabilizer and the principal leader of the region. The people have endorsed him, and we stand firmly behind him,” he stated.

They called on local leaders and residents to set aside “political factionalism” and rally behind the region’s collective agenda calling out those who secured their win through UDA banner in the last election but they were now advancing other parties' agenda.

The youth said they will rally behind DP Kindiki, a move they noted  will be positioning Mt Kenya in the forefront of the 2032 succession politics saying Mt Kenya region cannot afford to segregate itself.

“Tough statements must be made. Those advancing opposition agendas under UDA colours must return home, recommit, or honorably resign,” Kinyua said.

Samuel Kinyua, another youth leader urged young people across the Mt. Kenya counties to join the party’s youth wing, take up leadership roles, and help build a policy-driven, future-oriented movement.

According to the State Department of Devolution,  "effective governance depends on cooperation between national and county governments in shared or overlapping areas where capacity constraints exist." During the three years under Hon Muange, the county government and the national government have worked together for better service delivery for Tseikuru ward.

The projects touch on all eight villages namely Tseikuru, Katumbi, Masyungwa, Mulangoni, Kaningo, Kaivirya /Ngongoni, Ngalange/Nzanzeni and Musavani/Usueni.

Below are some of the projects that have changed the lives of Tseikuru ward residents:

-Construction of walk path connecting X-Ray room with main hospital-Tseikuru village 

-Construction of modern toilet in Tseikuru market in partnership With Kimwasco-Tseikuru village 

-Renovation and operationalization of Katumbi dispensary-Katumbi village

-Rehabilitation of Kwa Mbiti earth dam-Masyungwa village 

-Construction of a police station and fencing at Kwa Kamari-Mulangoni village

-Completion of ECDE classroom at Ciokereke primary school-Kaivirya/Ngongoni village

-Heavy grading of road from Usueni to Kyangini through Kyamalutu-11km-Musavani/Usueni village, among others. 

In the remaining two years,  the ward will be keen to see more development projects started and completed in their vicinities since this is the scorecard they will use in reelecting Tseikuru MCA Hon Daniel Muange.

The narrow victory by the UDA candidate has become the focal point of a fierce political exchange, with Kenya Kwanza leaders asserting that Gachagua's influence in the Mt. Kenya region is no longer as strong as he has led the public to believe.

"This defeat in Mbeere North is a clear message ,Gachagua has no place in Mt. Kenya politics anymore," Geoffrey Ruku, the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service said .

Speaking after visiting an injured victim of political attack in Ishiara at Embu Level 5 hospital, Ruku mocked Gachagua's self-proclaimed dominance in the region. "The people of Mbeere North have sent a clear signal that they do not want to be led by divisive figures. Instead, they are opting for leadership focused on development, and this victory firmly cements Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the true leader of the mountain," Ruku added.

Ruku said that Mt Kenya residents had moved too far to look behind, saying they were intact and aligned to the government."Rigathi Gachagua's defeat here is proof that the people of Mt. Kenya have made their choice. The region has no room for the politics of misinformation, insults, and division.This election was about the people of Mbeere North sending a message to Gachagua that the Mt Kenya kingpin is  Deputy President Kithure Kindiki,"Ruku said.

Gachagua, who had vigorously campaigned for Kariuki's  candidacy, has seen his political authority questioned following the unexpected outcome. While some had expected a significant victory for the DP-aligned candidate, the results have cast doubt on Gachagua’s sway in Mt. Kenya, particularly after the DP's candidate was  beaten by the UDA.

The MP-Elect in Mbeere North constituency Leonard Muthende said his win was a clear picture that politics of deceit and populism were over.

 "The people have spoken, and it is Deputy President Kindiki who is firmly in control of the region’s political destiny. Gachagua needs to come to terms with this reality because I am here as a member of Parliament elected on UDA," Muthende said.

In a final jab at Gachagua’s political standing, Muthende suggested that the former Deputy President might want to reconsider his position in active politics. "Perhaps it’s time for Gachagua to take a step back,the people have rejected the politics of personal attacks and chaos in favor of a more inclusive and development-focused approach,"Muthende noted.

He also said is now gearing up to defend his victory in the face of a court challenge from DP's Newton Kariuki Ndwiga. 

Ndwiga has alleged election malpractices and has vowed to contest the results in court. However, Muthende has dismissed the claims, asserting he is fully prepared to defend his seat in court.

"The people of Mbeere North have spoken, and no amount of legal challenges will take away the will of the people. I thank the voters for their trust and support, and I promise not to disappoint them. We will continue working for the development of the constituency, and no legal challenge will stop that,"Muthende noted.

The contest drew in national political giants, transforming a constituency by-election into a battleground for Mt Kenya influence. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki camped in Mbeere North, each determined to demonstrate who truly holds the region’s political crown.

The two leaders, who have both laid claim to the Mt Kenya kingship, took their rivalry to the ground, using the by-election as a test of influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.

During his tour in Siakago, Gachagua told the residents that he will only leave Mbeere when his candidate Newton Karish wins the by election, “This by-election is not just about a seat. It is about bringing back the dignity of the people of Mt Kenya region,” Gachagua said.

Kindiki mounted an equally aggressive campaign. Speaking in Kanyuambora, he said, “Leadership must be about development, not noise. I am around and I am not leaving here until Muthende wins. Muthende is the man to take Mbeere north forward," Kindiki stated.

Beyond the national duel, local political forces also clashed. DEP leader Lenny Kivuti and DP Party leader Justin Muturi went head-to-head with Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and former MP Muriuki Njagagua for control of the Mbeere North votes. All four have previously served as MPs and understand the constituency’s political patterns intimately.

The race therefore became a battle between the old political establishment and a new generation of leaders seeking to stamp their authority in the region.

Political analyst Stephen Ngari said the by-election has reshaped the national political landscape. He noted, Muthende’s win has shifted Mt Kenya politics boosting  Kindiki’s influence significantly and at the same time  questioning  Rigathi Gachagua Mt Kenya kingpin claim.

Mbeere North has long been known for closely fought elections. In 2007, Kivuti defeated Justin Muturi by about 700 votes. In 2013, Njagagua beat Muturi again by only 200 votes.

The trend continued in 2017 when Njagagua defeated Ruku by 2,000 votes, and in 2022 when Ruku unseated Njagagua by 600 votes. In the latest by-election, Muthende edged out Karish by roughly 409 votes, maintaining the constituency’s tradition of razor-thin outcomes.

Throughout the campaign, Gachagua insisted he would not leave Mbeere North until Karish was declared the winner. “I am here until victory is secured,” he said.

Kindiki delivered a contrasting message focused on stability and development. “Mbeere North deserves calm, focused leadership,” he told supporters in Evurore, positioning Muthende as the candidate of progress.

With Muthende now declared winner, the focus shifts to what he will deliver. He takes office following a period of significant development under CS Ruku, and expectations are high that he will sustain and grow that progress.

With just 15 months before the next General Election, the big question is whether Muthende can consolidate support quickly enough to secure a more comfortable victory in 2027. His narrow win shows both potential and vulnerability.

What remains clear is that the by-election has dramatically altered political dynamics in both Mbeere North and the wider Mt Kenya region. Muthende’s victory has boosted Kindiki’s political standing, weakened Gachagua’s grip, and set the stage for an intense race as the nation heads towards 2027.

Speaking to the press, the senator emphasized the need for calm, saying the strength of Mbeere North lies in its long-standing unity, not in political confrontation.

Mundigi reminded voters that elections come and go, but the community remains, urging residents to prioritize peace above all else as campaigns enter the final stretch.

He further advised the electorate to choose a candidate aligned with the government, arguing that this would empower Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki to negotiate for more development projects for the region.

The senator noted that government reinforcement at the constituency level is key in securing roads, water projects, youth programs, and investment opportunities resources he said would be harder to achieve from the opposition.

Mundigi insisted that the by-election is not just a vote, but a chance for Mbeere North to position itself as a strong partner in the national development agenda.

His sentiments were backed by Nyandarua County MCA Stephen Muriithi, who did not mince his words in criticizing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for urging the public to rally behind the opposition.

Muriithi dismissed the calls, arguing that the opposition “has nothing meaningful to offer Mbeere North at this critical moment,” and urging residents to choose progress over political theatrics.

He highlighted several recent achievements made possible through support from the national government, among them the constructed Ithookwe Kitui Stadium, the revived Kitui Airstrip,

and improved road projects, including those recently launched by the President William Ruto, noting  that such projects are improving infrastructure and enhancing access to services across the county.

He further reiterated that he will continue championing partnerships that bring tangible benefits to the people of Kitui, urging residents to support ongoing efforts to advance development across the county.

He was speaking on Saturday during the burial ceremony of the late Grace Syong'ombe Mutua, mother to Bretta Mwangangi, the Chief Officer for Irrigation in Matinyani, Kitui West Sub-County.

Kindiki told residents that the constituency must not allow itself to be used as a political battlefield by leaders who previously held powerful offices but failed to deliver when entrusted with national responsibilities.

“You were assigned huge duties to help the President serve the people, but you chose sabotage, threats and intimidation and now you are out here lying to people to follow you into the opposition,"Kindiki said.

Speaking on Sunday in Kivue, where he led campaigns for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende, Kindiki said the people of Mbeere North can not be pawns in anyone’s revenge mission.

He told voters that it would be reckless to abandon the government they overwhelmingly elected, especially at a time when numerous development projects are underway across the constituency.

“We can not do such a foolish thing because this is the government we elected .We can not go to the opposition yet there are many development projects lined up in our area,"Kindiki stated.

The Deputy President exuded confidence that Wamuthende will triumph in the upcoming by-election, saying his leadership style and agenda resonate deeply with the aspirations of the people.

“Leo is a respectful leader. He has clearly explained what he plans to do to ensure ongoing development projects are completed and commencement of others. There is no day he has insulted anyone, even his competitors,"the DP said.

He emphasized that the by-election is not about political quarrels but about sustaining development and choosing a leader focused on service delivery rather than sideshows. Kindiki also dismissed criticisms against him, insisting that he is firmly in office and fully executing his mandate.

“I am duly in office as the Deputy President of Kenya by right. I am assisting the President serve the people of Kenya,"Kindiki noted.

On his part, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku accused the opposition of plotting chaos and intimidation ahead of the poll. He warned that any attempts to engineer violence would be met with firm resistance from both the government and the people.

He said politics of violence and personal attacks have no space in Mbeere politics and called on residents to safeguard peace as they prepare to cast their vote.

" I want to call on county commissioner and other security operators to take action against those mobilizing goons to attack the people  because Mbeere people are peaceful," Ruku Said.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took his campaign trail to Kanyuambora in Evurore Ward, where he launched an attack on President William Ruto, accusing him of betraying the people of Mbeere and the larger Mt Kenya region.

While addressing residents, he claimed that the President has no heart for the community, insisting he unceremoniously edged out former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi and himself from government.

“We must show President William Ruto that he wronged us. He chased Muturi and me out of government. It is time for the people of Mbeere to wake up and express their anger by voting for DP candidate Newton Karish,” Gachagua said.

He further alleged that the government was aggressively fronting Leonard Muthende because he was “easy to control,” urging voters to reject what he described as attempts to impose a pliable candidate on the constituency.

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.

Speaking on Thursday 20th  October 2025 during a campaign rally for UDA’s Mbeere North by-election candidate Leonard Muthende, Kindiki said Gachagua engineered his own ouster by picking early and unnecessary fights with President William Ruto soon after assuming office in 2022.

According to Kindiki, Gachagua abandoned the constitutional role of principal assistant and instead began positioning himself as the President’s equal, a move that triggered tensions at the highest level of government.

The DP said attempts were made to advise Gachagua privately, but he consistently ignored counsel, choosing instead to intimidate and undermine elected leaders especially those from the Mt. Kenya region while asserting himself as the region’s political kingpin.

“What befell him was self-inflicted and had nothing to do with the President .I personally talked to him to stop the supremacy battles with the President and ignored me,"said Kindiki.

Kindiki revealed that he approached Gachagua while serving as Interior Cabinet Secretary, pleading with him to focus on helping the President deliver development during the first term instead of engaging in political chest-thumping.

“I advised him to go slow until the President secures a second term in office, then he could chart his own political path,but he could hear nothing,” Kindiki disclosed.

The DP added that Gachagua’s alleged disrespect for MPs, MCAs, governors and senators worsened the situation, angering leaders who eventually supported the impeachment motion that removed him from office.

“You threatened MPs, MCAs, governors, senators… my brother, what happened happened,and it was self-inflicted,” Kindiki remarked, urging Gachagua to avoid disrespecting leaders and wananchi going forward.

At the rally, Kindiki rallied Mbeere North residents to elect Muthende, describing him as the candidate best positioned to advance development and local interests.

He said he will work with  all candidates who will lose the election, saying the contest should unite not divide the constituency.

“This election is about the people of Mbeere North.I am ready to sit with all candidates after the polls to see how we can support each other going forward.”

Other leaders present including Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku, Governor Cecily Mbarire, and Senator Alexander Mundigi accused Gachagua’s camp of allegedly attempting to buy National ID cards in UDA strongholds.

They urged the people of Mbeere North to elect a leader who will take their development forward.

In a rare and pointed attack at his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua, Kindiki dismissed what he termed as self-appointed leadership claims, saying Mt Kenya does not have a kingpin who crowns himself. 

“I have not said this before, but let me say it today.This habit of declaring yourself the leader of Mt Kenya  who chose you?,” Kindiki told the cheering crowd at Kirie market.

Gachagua has repeatedly argued that his tenure as Deputy President automatically places him at the apex of the region’s political hierarchy. But Kindiki sharply countered the narrative, insisting that while he serves the entire nation alongside President William Ruto, he remains the de-facto leader when it comes to Mt Kenya politics.

“I am helping the President to run the country and the 47 counties, but when I am home, I am the senior-most political leader in Mt Kenya for the avoidance of doubt,” Kindiki said.

In an even more pointed jab, Kindiki declared, “Niko ndani. Uko nje na unatuambia wewe ndio kusema hapa?".

The intensifying rivalry between the two leaders has reached boiling point in the run-up to the Mbeere North by-election, with both Kindiki and Gachagua pitching camp to rally support for their respective candidates. The stakes are high, with the contest being viewed as a barometer of political influence across Mt Kenya ahead of the 2027 and 2032 elections.

Kindiki has thrown his full weight behind UDA’s Leonard Muthende and has pledged to remain in the constituency until Muthende secures the seat, framing the by-election.

“Time for humiliating leaders and the people of Mbeere North is over,” he declared, urging residents to reject political manipulation and embrace what he termed as a new chapter of development-driven leadership.

On Tuesday, the DP led a series of high-energy rallies across the constituency, warning the Opposition against any attempt to cause chaos. His visible and hands-on approach is being interpreted as a demonstration of his expanding authority following his rise to the deputy presidency.

Meanwhile, Gachagua is employing an intensive door-to-door strategy in support of DCP’s Newton Kariuki, popularly known as Karish. 

As both heavyweights dig in for a final showdown, Mbeere North has suddenly become the epicentre of a fierce battle for regional dominance, with the by-election morphing into a proxy war for Mt Kenya’s political soul.

Whether Kindiki’s hard-hitting declaration reshapes the region’s power matrix remains to be seen  but one thing is clear,the Mbeere North race has become more than just a vote. It is a test of influence, loyalty, and the future direction of Mt Kenya politics.