Ruku Says Mbeere North By-Election a Rebuff to “Self-Made Kingship” as Unity Message Emerges

 

By Phanice Rono 

The tightly contested November 27 by-election in Mbeere North Constituency has stirred significant political debate after United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wa Muthende clinched victory by a razor-thin margin of 494 votes. Muthende garnered 15,802 votes against independent candidate Newton Kariuki Karish, who secured 15,308, in a race that has quickly taken on national political meaning—particularly for the Mount Kenya East region.

Speaking on November 29 at Suneka Catholic Parish in Bonchari, Kisii County, Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said the outcome reflected a broader voter rejection of politics built on regional dominance and personalised power. Without naming him directly at first, Ruku took aim at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s attempts to position himself as the political “kingpin” of Mount Kenya, saying the Mbeere North electorate had delivered a decisive message.

“His kingship is self-made and unsupported. Mbeere North proved that,” Ruku said. He argued that the poll demonstrated that voters preferred leaders who champion unity, development and peaceful engagement over what he described as noise, divisive rhetoric and empty political posturing.

Ruku urged Kenyans—especially young people—to be wary of leaders who exploit ethnic identity or fear to advance personal agendas. He stressed that modern politics must revolve around service delivery, social cohesion and inclusive development rather than tribal loyalties or polarising narratives.

For supporters of the ruling coalition, Muthende’s win is seen as more than just the retention of a parliamentary seat. Many view it as evidence that voters in Mount Kenya East are increasingly prioritising practical governance, accountability and tangible development over identity-based appeals. Political analysts, however, note that the narrow margin underscores how fiercely competitive the region remains, even as voters signal a desire for stability and performance-driven leadership.

With political temperatures rising ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ruku’s remarks are being interpreted as both a warning and strategic cue. Observers say parties and candidates may now be forced to rethink their messaging—especially in areas where residents appear fatigued by polarising politics and unmet promises.

The Mbeere North result, they note, points to a shifting political landscape in which Kenyan voters are becoming less tolerant of divisive tactics and increasingly vocal in demanding accountable, inclusive and development-oriented leadership.