Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has dismissed claims by Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi and Development Empowerment Party (DEP) leader Lenny Kivuti that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is planning to rig the forthcoming Mbeere North by-election.
Speaking in Cianyi, Embu County, during the launch of a government-backed school feeding programme, Ruku said the allegations were baseless and politically motivated. He accused the two leaders of spreading panic because they were anticipating defeat at the ballot.
“These are crocodile tears from leaders who already know the outcome. The people of Mbeere North have decided, and their choice is Leonard Wa Muthende. No amount of propaganda will overturn that,” said Ruku.
The CS urged Muturi and Kivuti to accept the political reality on the ground, maintaining that neither the government nor the ruling UDA party had any plans to interfere with the by-election or the 2027 General Election. Instead, he challenged them to focus on outlining their candidate’s development agenda instead of stirring unnecessary controversy.
“It’s unfortunate that during their last rally, they didn’t speak about their manifesto or what their candidate intends to do for Mbeere North. While we are focused on tangible development, they are busy spreading falsehoods,” he added.
Ruku further praised the UDA candidate, Leonard Wa Muthende, for maintaining close contact with residents and presenting a clear, people-centered agenda. He cited his own past performance as Mbeere North MP, referencing key infrastructure projects like the Gìkuyari–Mùmìnjì–Ishiara road, which he said came to life through his lobbying.
He also took a swipe at Muturi and Kivuti, accusing them of political double standards. Ruku said the two, who both served under the KANU regime, had no moral ground to lecture others on election integrity, claiming they had been part of a system once accused of similar malpractices.
“Between them, they have held senior positions for more than thirty years, yet Mbeere North still lags behind. They should account for that instead of pointing fingers,” he concluded.
