Leo Wamuthende, the newly elected MP for Mbeere North, has pledged to serve all residents of the constituency without favouritism following Thursday’s tightly contested by-election. Speaking after being officially declared the winner early Friday, Wamuthende expressed gratitude to voters, his party, and the institutions that oversaw the poll.
“I thank God. I thank all my supporters for their support and prayers,” he said. “As you can see, it was a hotly contested race, and it is only through God that we have made it this far.”
He also acknowledged the role of his party and the electoral body in ensuring a credible process. “I want to thank UDA, my party, for the support,” Wamuthende said. “The security team, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), for conducting a fair election, and I want to thank the people of Mbeere North.”
Wamuthende assured that his leadership would be inclusive. “I have made a commitment not only to those who elected me but to all residents of Mbeere North. I will be there," he said. “Whichever choice they made, I am now the MP. I will discharge my duty without any discrimination."
The MP-elect reiterated his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises. “I remember mentioning fair distribution of bursary, free secondary education for day scholars and infrastructural development,” he said. “I remain committed to serving the people of Mbeere North.”
He further pledged to continue projects initiated by his predecessor. “I am committed to ensuring that the projects from the last MP that are still underway are completed,” Wamuthende said. “I look forward to serving residents of Mbeere North as their MP.”
Wamuthende narrowly defeated Newton Kariuki, who is also known as Newton Karish, with 15,802 votes against Kariuki’s 15,308. The contest drew national attention, shaped by the active involvement of top leaders in the region.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki campaigned for Wamuthende, highlighting the importance of continuity in government-funded projects and development in the area. “Electing Wamuthende is vital for completion of major works, including roads, water and electricity infrastructure, and water-reticulation projects from the Kiambere Dam,” Wamuthende said.
On the other hand, Rigathi Gachagua supported Kariuki, leading grassroots campaigns through village-level outreach and urging voters to resist what he described as “state-sponsored politics.”
The intense rivalry elevated the by-election into a national talking point, reflecting broader political competition in the Mt Kenya region. Wamuthende’s victory now strengthens UDA’s foothold in Embu County and positions him as a key player in local and regional politics.
