Political giants face off in pivotal Mbeere North by election

Mbeere North has emerged as a hotbed of political rivalry after MP Geoffrey Ruku’s appointment by President William Ruto as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service.

His exit has sparked fierce competition and led to some surprising political alignments.

In a surprising twist, former adversaries Justin Muturi, leader of the Democratic Party, and Lenny Kivuti, chair of the Devolution Empowerment Party, have come together to back Newton Karish, the MCA for Mumenji Ward, in the race.

During a joint meeting in Mbeere South, it was revealed that Karish would contest under the DP party ticket, the same one that saw Ruku elected in 2022.

In return, Muturi has committed to supporting Kivuti’s gubernatorial aspirations for the 2027 elections.

This partnership is significant given Muturi's previous alignment with Kenya Kwanza in 2022, while Kivuti had been a supporter of Azimio’s Raila Odinga.

However, this unity faces considerable opposition from Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who is backing Evurore MCA Duncan Mbui.

Mukunji recently led a delegation to meet former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Wamunyoro, Nyeri County.

On the same day, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire met with Ruku, a move seen as an attempt to sway the selection process for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.

The final choice between Thiriku and former Embu Speaker Kariuki Mate for UDA's candidacy will depend on the endorsements of Ruku and Mbarire.

Meanwhile, former MP Muriuki Njagagua is vying for a comeback after serving two terms in office.

His bid is further complicated by his brother, Dr. Murage Njagagua, a University of Nairobi lecturer, who is also in the race, sparking a compelling sibling rivalry.

Other contenders in the race include Jacob Ireri Mbao, a hearing-impaired philanthropist recognised for his community development efforts, who is determined to become the first MP in the region with a hearing disability.

Alongside him are grassroots candidates Konji Kwayo and Patricio Njiru.

As official campaigning has not yet begun, this by-election will serve as a crucial test of the influence of seasoned politicians and a key indicator of Kenya Kwanza’s unity in Mt Kenya East.

The victorious candidate may emerge as a prominent political figure ahead of the 2027 general election.