The recent appointment of Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku into President William Ruto’s Cabinet as Public Service CS, has triggered a by-election in Mbeere North, an event political observers now view as a critical referendum on Kenya Kwanza’s strength in Mt Kenya East.
The race, though prompted by a routine cabinet reshuffle, has morphed into a fierce political battleground pitting allies, rivals, and former foes against one another. At stake is not just a parliamentary seat, but influence, legitimacy, and regional dominance.
At the heart of the contest is the United Democratic Alliance’s (UDA) potential nominee, Muriuki Njagagua, who narrowly lost to Ruku in the 2022 General Election by a mere 647 votes. Now serving as chairman of Consolidated Bank courtesy of Ruto’s appointment, Njagagua is seen as a strong contender, particularly with the region firmly represented at the highest levels of government.
Yet, opposition forces are not resting. In a dramatic twist, long-time rivals Justin Muturi and Lenny Kivuti have shelved their differences to back a single candidate, Newton Karish, the Mumenji Ward MCA. This unprecedented unity suggests a strategic move to consolidate anti-Ruto sentiment in the constituency.
However, their cohesion faces a significant hurdle. Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji is championing a rival, Duncan Mbui of Evurore Ward, the area’s most populous. Adding weight to Mbui’s bid is support from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who hinted at fielding a candidate through his anticipated political party, further complicating the picture.
Amidst this web of alliances and rivalries, Josiah Thiriku, Speaker of the Embu County Assembly, has quietly thrown his hat into the ring, reportedly with the tacit backing of Ruku himself. Meanwhile, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has entered the fray, reportedly in discussions with Ruku over whether to endorse Thiriku or former Speaker Kariuki Mate as the UDA flagbearer.
Political analysts warn that without a consensus among opposition leaders—Gachagua, Muturi, and Kivuti—their votes risk being split, giving UDA an upper hand. For Kenya Kwanza, the by-election offers Deputy President Kithure Kindiki an opportunity to solidify his influence in Mt Kenya East.
What began as a simple cabinet reshuffle may soon reveal the true fault lines and ambitions shaping the region’s political future.
