By Murugi Ndwiga, Eastern Region
In a vibrant display of party unity and political power, Members of Parliament affiliated with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have declared unwavering support for Leonard Muthende, the party’s candidate in the upcoming Mbeere North by-election.
The show of solidarity unfolded in Siakago Sub-County, where Muthende officially presented his UDA nomination certificate to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for clearance. The event quickly turned into a major political spectacle as UDA legislators from across the region converged to endorse their candidate, transforming Siakago town into a sea of yellow as jubilant supporters chanted slogans and waved party flags.
Addressing the charged crowd, Leonard Muthende promised to usher in a new era of development and inclusivity for Mbeere North residents. He pledged to focus on infrastructure, education, and access to clean water and electricity, projects he said were long overdue in the constituency.
“When you elect me as your next MP, I will ensure that every village in Mbeere North is connected to electricity and clean water. I will build better roads, improve schools, and create opportunities for our youth and women. Every child deserves a proper classroom, and every farmer deserves access to markets,” said Muthende, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
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Muthende also took the opportunity to criticize his rivals, accusing them of hypocrisy and empty rhetoric. He questioned how opposition candidates could claim to deliver development while opposing the very government responsible for funding such projects.
“I have heard my opponents saying they will bring development to Mbeere North. But I ask, how? From where will they get these projects if they are fighting the same government expected to deliver them? Let us be honest with our people. Only someone within the ruling party can effectively push for meaningful development. Be wise, my people, vote for someone who can deliver,” he said.
The rally drew an impressive lineup of UDA-aligned leaders, underscoring the party’s determination to retain the seat and strengthen its grip in Embu County.
Leading the team was Charles Muriuki Njagagua, the former Mbeere South MP who now serves as Senior Advisor to President William Ruto. Njagagua praised Muthende as a capable leader who understands the needs of the people and has the government’s goodwill to bring visible change.
“Leonard Muthende is one of our own, and he has the full support of the government. The opposition candidates cannot claim to bring development when they are constantly attacking the very administration that funds it. Those same leaders have been in government before, yet they did nothing for the people of Mbeere North. It is time for a new, vibrant leader who will work hand in hand with President Ruto’s government,” Njagagua said.
Also voicing strong support were Runyenjes MP Eric Muchangi Karemba, Embu Woman Representative Pamela Njoki Njeru, and Mbeere South MP Nebert Muriuki, who all described Muthende as a unifying and development-minded candidate capable of transforming the region.
Adding his voice to the rally, Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri urged Mbeere North residents to make a wise decision in the upcoming by-election, cautioning them against being misled by politicians who had “turned bitter” after leaving government.
“We have seen the same people traversing Mbeere North criticizing the government they once served. What did they achieve during their time in office? Nothing. Let them stop misleading our people with bitterness. The future belongs to those who work with the government, not against it. On November 27, vote wisely, vote for Leonard Muthende,” said Kiunjuri to loud cheers from the crowd.
Other leaders who attended the rally included Patrick Munene (Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe), George Murugara (Tharaka), Mwengi Mutuse (Kibwezi West), Rindikiri Mugambi (Buuri), Ann Wamuratha (Kiambu Woman Representative), and John Paul Mwirigi (Igembe South). They jointly urged residents to rally behind UDA, emphasizing that aligning with the ruling party would open doors for more government projects in Mbeere North.
“Development follows stability and partnership. When you stand with the government, you attract progress. Let us not isolate ourselves from the national agenda. Let Mbeere North join hands with the UDA administration and move forward together,” said the leaders in a joint statement.
Meanwhile, Nominated MP Sabina Chege lauded the recently launched NYOTA Project, a government initiative aimed at empowering the youth through training, mentorship, and access to funding opportunities.
“I was pleased to learn that at least 1,400 young people in Embu County will benefit from the Nyota Project. This program is one of President William Ruto’s key initiatives to uplift the youth. I urge all young people in Mbeere North to enroll and take full advantage of this opportunity,” Sabina said.
The event ended on a high note, with supporters breaking into dance and song as they declared their readiness to deliver a resounding victory for Muthende. Motorcades snaked through the streets of Siakago as chants of “ Wamuthende!” Tutam!” echoed across the town.
With the nomination process now complete, the political temperature in Mbeere North is rising as the race narrows down to three key contenders: Leonard Muthende (UDA), Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, who is enjoying opposition backing, and Duncan Mbui (CCK).
Mbeere North by-elections appear to be shaping up as a test of strength between the ruling party and the opposition, with both sides keen to prove their influence in Embu County. But with the ruling party machinery fully behind him, Leonard Muthende appears to be emerging as a frontrunner, buoyed by the visible support of senior government officials and grassroots mobilization efforts already in full swing.
As November 27 draws closer, all eyes will be on Mbeere North, a constituency that has suddenly become a political battlefield and a barometer of UDA’s dominance in the region.