Mbeere North Set for Another By-Elections After MCAs Resign Following Shock Parliamentary Losses
By-elections are set to take place in two wards in Mbeere North, Embu County, after their elected representatives resigned to pursue the parliamentary seat in the constituency.
County Speaker Josiah Thiriku confirmed the resignations barely a week after a highly contested parliamentary by-election in Mbeere North, where both Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) lost their bids. Thiriku has formally written to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), requesting that dates be set for the upcoming mini-polls.
The resigning MCAs are Newton Kariuki of Muminji Ward and Duncan Mbui of Evurore Ward. Kariuki, representing the Democratic Party (DP), narrowly lost to the United Democratic Alliance’s (UDA) Leonard Wa Muthende in the parliamentary race. Mbui, who initially contested under the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), stepped down after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua endorsed Kariuki following a coalition between DP and Gachagua’s camp.
Mbui later expressed feelings of betrayal, claiming Gachagua had failed to inform him of the coalition deal. He subsequently joined Chama Cha Kazi (CCM), led by former Gatundu North MP Moses Kuria, but was unsuccessful in the parliamentary race.
The recent by-election was reportedly marked by chaos, with allegations that leaders visited polling stations to influence voters, including claims of intimidation and bribery.
Gachagua Responds to Mbui Allegations
Speaking on the matter, Rigathi Gachagua defended the decision to withdraw Mbui’s candidature. He explained that the move was made after consultations with local elders, who claimed that the electorate expressed overwhelming support for Kariuki.
“As a respectful leader, I had no option but to follow the recommendations of the community leaders,” Gachagua stated.
The upcoming by-elections in Muminji and Evurore wards are now expected to test the political influence of both Kariuki and Mbui at the county level.
Also Read: Angry Gachagua Drags Citizen Tv’s Stephen Letoo Into United Opposition Fallout Mess
Mbeere North Set for Another By-Elections After MCAs Resign Following Shock Parliamentary Losses