EMBU, Kenya — United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Muriuki Wamuthende has been declared the new Member of Parliament for Mbeere North following a tightly contested by-election marked by tension, voter frustration, and a dramatic confrontation involving a Cabinet Secretary.
According to official results announced Thursday evening, Wamuthende garnered 15,802 votes, narrowly defeating Democratic Party (DP) candidate Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, who secured 15,308 votes. Several other candidates trailed behind.
In a statement celebrating the win, UDA framed the victory as a community-led rejection of political intimidation.
“The people of Mbeere North have chosen a path of development, dignity, and stability,” the party said, adding that residents had “stood firm for the UDA vision that uplifts communities, protects democratic choice, and puts the needs of ordinary citizens first.”
The party further praised Wamuthende’s triumph as both political and symbolic.
“Your victory is not just political; it is a testament to the resilience and resolve of a community that refuses to be swayed by chaos or deception,” UDA stated. The party also pledged support as Wamuthende takes office, calling on him to deliver “transformative leadership rooted in integrity and service.”
Earlier in the day, the by-election was disrupted at Kanyuambora polling station after Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku was chased out by irate voters.
A video widely circulated online shows the CS inside the polling station moments before locals confronted him, accusing him of attempting to influence the process despite lacking authorization to remain inside the station.
“You are supposed to be out there, not here,” one voter shouted, blocking his path.
The confrontation escalated when Ruku attempted to push the man outside, only for the voter to defiantly shove his hand away. Within minutes, a crowd gathered, booing and insisting that the campaign period was over.
“Go away, the campaign period is over; people are not fools anymore,” the residents shouted.
Ruku eventually exited the station as the tension grew, leaving behind a charged atmosphere that underscored the high stakes of the contest.
The Mbeere North by-election was one of the most closely monitored contests in the country, with both UDA and DP treating the constituency as a battleground ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Analysts say the razor-thin margin reflects both shifting loyalties and intense political competition in Embu County, traditionally seen as part of the wider Mount Kenya voting bloc.
With the win, UDA extends its dominance in key parliamentary contests this year, even as opposition parties register major victories in their strongholds elsewhere.
Wamuthende is expected to be sworn in after IEBC completes formal declarations, paving the way for the new MP to begin his term amid heightened scrutiny and public expectation.
