The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Leo Wamuthende, has been declared the winner of the Mbeere North parliamentary by-election, securing a vital seat in a fiercely competitive race that drew national political attention.

Wamuthende was announced the Member of Parliament-elect by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) early Friday morning, clinching victory with 15,802 votes.

His nearest rival, Newton Kariuki (also known as Newton Karish), who ran on the Democratic Party (DP) ticket, garnered a strong 15,308 votes. The close margin of 494 votes underscores the intense nature of the contest.
Speaking after his victory, Wamuthende expressed his gratitude and committed to unifying the constituency, regardless of political affiliation.

“I thank God. I thank all my supporters for their support and prayers,” he said, acknowledging the competitive nature of the election.

Crucially, the UDA MP-elect extended an assurance to all residents: “I have made a commitment not only to those who elected me but to all residents of Mbeere North… I will discharge my duty without any discrimination.”

Wamuthende pledged to immediately focus on his campaign promises, specifically citing the fair distribution of bursaries, free secondary education for day scholars, and infrastructural development.

He also assured residents that he would prioritise the completion of projects started by his predecessor before initiating new ones, aiming to provide a seamless transition in leadership and development.

He thanked his party, UDA, and specifically commended the IEBC and the security teams for conducting what he termed a “fair election.”

The Mbeere North by-election became far more than a local contest, morphing into a proxy battle that reflected the simmering tensions and power dynamics within the Mt. Kenya region leadership of the ruling UDA party.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua rallied support for the Democratic Party candidate, Newton Kariuki, adopting a grassroots, door-to-door canvassing approach. Gachagua’s campaign urged voters to resist what he labelled “state-sponsored politics,” positioning the race as a test of independent voter choice against perceived central pressure.

On the other hand Deputy President Kithure Kindiki threw his full weight behind Wamuthende’s UDA campaign, personally leading rallies and framing the election as a crucial vote for continuity and the delivery of government-funded projects.