Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s hands-on approach in Mbeere North proved decisive in the constituency’s recent by-election, helping the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) overcome stiff opposition.
Upon arriving in the area on November 17, 2025, Prof Kindiki found UDA struggling against a strong coalition led by Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, Devolution Empowerment Party leader Lenny Kivuti, and UDA’s own critic, Rigathi Gachagua.
The alliance posed a major threat, given that Muturi and Kivuti jointly control more than half of the constituency’s electorate and enjoy deep-rooted influence among residents.
To counter the formidable opposition, UDA enlisted the support of former area MP and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, and Senator Alexander Mundigi.
The campaign quickly shifted strategy to focus on the constituency’s pressing issues, particularly the challenges faced by its semi-arid communities, while engaging directly with local leaders and grassroots mobilisers. This hands-on method, UDA sources say, played a central role in reversing the party’s fortunes.
Over nine days, Kindiki held over 50 focused meetings alongside 17 public rallies, a relentless schedule that proved critical to UDA’s success.
“The DP held 17 rallies that we publicised even on his social media platforms, but behind the scenes, he held not less than four meetings each day. The meetings included local leaders, mobilisers, and party agents,” one campaign insider explained.
The opening rally in Siakago set a strong momentum for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende, popularly called Leo, who had faced intense criticism from Gachagua, Muturi, and Kivuti.
“I will teach Gachagua a lesson and show him that he is not, and will never be, the Mt Kenya kingpin. I will humble him and demonstrate that I am the real King of the Mountain,” Prof Kindiki stated on November 17.
Prof Kindiki remained in Mbeere North until November 28, personally guiding the campaign and presenting Wamuthende as the candidate focused on development and delivering tangible results. “Wamuthende is the best choice for the people, and he will take the semi-arid constituency forward,” he said at one of the rallies.
The results reflected the effectiveness of the strategy, with Wamuthende clinching 15,802 votes, narrowly edging out Newton Kariuki (Karish) of the Democratic Party, who received 15,308 votes. Duncan Mbui of Chama cha Kazi came third with 2,480 votes.
With 55,124 registered voters, 33,947 participated, representing a turnout of 61.9 percent, one of the highest in Kenya’s by-election history.
The outcome dealt a significant setback to Gachagua’s claim to Mt Kenya leadership, while elevating Kindiki’s political standing. Analysts highlight that UDA’s victory was driven by a combination of rigorous planning, grassroots engagement, and continuous local presence, demonstrating the impact of hands-on leadership in contested political spaces.
