The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially named United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wa Muthende as the newly elected MP for Mbeere North.
The announcement was made on Friday, November 28, after Wa Muthende narrowly edged out his closest rival, Newton Kariuki (Karish) of the Democratic Party, in one of the tightest mini-poll races of the day. Wa Muthende secured 15,802 votes, while Kariuki followed closely with 15,308.
“The Returning Officer for Mbeere North Constituency hereby declares Leonard Wa Muthende duly elected as Member of the National Assembly,” the IEBC confirmed.
The by-election came after the seat fell vacant when former MP Geoffrey Ruku was appointed Public Service Cabinet Secretary, replacing Justin Muturi, who exited the position earlier this year.
Thursday’s contest unfolded amid intense political rivalry, with both government-aligned leaders and a united opposition investing heavily in the campaigns. Polling centres saw a strong voter turnout and tightened security as the competing camps mobilised supporters and traded political strength on the ground.
Despite the heated atmosphere leading up to the vote, the electoral process concluded with Wa Muthende securing victory and officially taking over the Mbeere North parliamentary seat.
