Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru has promised to put the interests of Ol Kalou residents first after sweeping to victory in the parliamentary by-election, saying the overwhelming support he received comes with a responsibility he is determined to fulfil.
The newly elected Member of Parliament said the outcome of the poll was more than a personal achievement, describing it as the people's decision and a victory made possible through faith, perseverance and the support he received throughout the campaign.
Addressing supporters after he was declared the winner, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidate first thanked God, saying the journey to Parliament had only been possible through divine favour despite the obstacles he encountered.
"I wish to thank God for this moment because without Him, I wouldn't be standing here. I am here because God made it possible for me to become the Member of Parliament against all odds," Kamau said.
He also expressed appreciation to his wife and family for standing by him from the beginning of the campaign, saying they never lost faith in him even during difficult moments.
"The second person I want to thank is the woman standing next to me, my wife, and my family. They stood with me even when things didn't look good. Family always comes first because, when times are tough, you always have a place to run to," he said.
Kamau also recognised DCP party leader and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying his leadership had guided the party to its first parliamentary seat.
Speaking directly to Gachagua, he said: "I have only one message to him: the rejected stone became the cornerstone."
He said the outcome of the by-election had sent a clear political message, adding that Gachagua had demonstrated his continued influence across the Mt Kenya region.
"We may have impeached you, but today you have made a statement that the King of the Mountain, the party of choice, the man of the hour, and the man of the moment, who will lead our country into the future in 2027, is none other than Rigathi Gachagua," he declared.
Kamau thanked the people of Ol Kalou for giving him more than 35,000 votes, saying their support reflected the confidence they had placed in his leadership.
"This is a resounding win. Those 35,000 votes are the faith the people have put in me. I cannot fail them. I will work for them diligently," he said.
He further claimed voters endured pressure during the campaign period, alleging they were offered gifts before polling day and later faced heavy police action on election day.
"The people of Ol Kalou were given everything, from food to goodies. Even with teargas canisters on election day, they withstood all that and declared that their person of choice is Douglas Kamau," he claimed.
The MP-elect assured residents that he would work hard to fulfil the promises he made during the campaign and asked God to grant him wisdom as he prepares to take office.
"I will serve you diligently to the best of my ability. My prayer has always been that God should not only give me this seat but also give me the wisdom to serve you in the best way possible," he said.
Kamau also acknowledged Nyandarua Senator John Methu for remaining by his side during the three-month campaign, saying the senator had invested his time, effort and resources in the race.
"We've had our highs and our lows, but you've never let my hands down. We have worked together all through, and for that I am deeply grateful," Kamau said.